A Guide to Southern New Mexico Wineries

Because of its climate and soil, New Mexico is the oldest commercial wine-growing region in the United States. New Mexico wineries are producing award winning wines that are recognized all over the world. According to the New Mexico Wine Grower's Association, there are 42commercial wineries/tasting rooms in New Mexico. Whether you are from the State or traveling through, you will enjoy the taste of this region's wines. Here are 5 of the top wineries found in Southern New Mexico. Additional information on Wine Events in the State can be found at nmwine.com.

Willmon Vineyards/End of the Vine Gift Shop

Located at 2801 Sudderth Dr. in downtown Ruidoso, New Mexico. Visitors will enjoy a variety of New Mexico wines in a classy, yet cozy wine bar. Wine bottle prices range from $13.00-$40.00. There is a gift shop that offers imported cheeses, gourmet foods, and unusual gifts. I have had great service every time I have visited this establishment. I highly recommend stopping in and meeting the friendly staff. Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat (10am-7pm) and Sun (noon-6pm). Please call 575-630-WINE for additional information.

Tularosa Vineyards

Located at #23 Coyote Canyon Rd. in the quaint Village of Tularosa, New Mexico. This is a small, family owned business offering wine tasting and vineyard tours. There are picnic tables under the pecan trees for relaxing and enjoying the wine. Available wines are mainly produced from vinifera grapes and include many varieties that are unique. My personal favorite is "Billy's Blush", named after Billy the Kid. Wine bottle prices range from $10.00-$22.00. Hours of operation: Noon-5pm daily, year round. Calling ahead is encouraged. More information can be obtained by calling 1-800-687-4467.

Heart of the Desert Vineyard/Eagle Ranch

Located at 7288 Hwy 54/70 in Alamogordo, New Mexico. This establishment offers a tasting room with award winning pistachios and wines from Eagle Ranch. I love their "Pistaachio Rose" wine, it is a must taste if you have a chance. Prices for bottled wines range from $12.00-$25.00. Free Farm tours are available Mon-Fri at 1:30pm(Sept-May) , Mon-Fri at 10am and 1:30pm(June-Aug). Tours last about 45 minutes and consists of a lot of walking. It is wheelchair accessible. Tours will provide information on how pistachios are grown and processed. Please call ahead for large groups at 1-800-432-0999. In addition, visitors can enjoy an Art Gallery as well as a Gift Shop featuring nuts, cookies, and a wide selection of unique gifts. Store hours: Mon-Sat (8am-6pm) and Sun (9am-6pm).

St. Clair Winery and Bistro

Located at 1800 Avenida De Mesilla in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Features a restaurant, serving the finest French Country dishes complimented with award winning New Mexico Wines. Live Jazz music on Thurs-Sat nights. Lunch and Dinner menus with great prices ranging from $7.00-$20.00. Open 7 days a week. For more information, please call 575-524-2408. The winery also offers a tasting room with a large selection of New Mexico wines. Bottle prices range from $15.00-$60.00. They are available for Special Events.

Pecos Flavors Winery

Located at 305 North main St. in Roswell, New Mexico. Take a break from all the aliens and enjoy over 80 varieties and blends of New Mexico Wine. The winery is located in a 100 year old bar from Hondo, New Mexico with a statue of Billy the Kid hovering nearby. You will feel a part of the Old West as you enjoy free wine tasting. There is also local live entertainment most of the time. In addition, green chilies, coffee, pistachios, pecans, and cheeses are offered. This is my favorite winery to visit. Dale, the owner, makes you feel all the comforts of home. A terrific way to spend an afternoon. Hours of operation: Mon-Thurs(10am-7pm), Fri and Sat(10am-8pm). Available for Special Events. For more information, please call 575-627-6265.