Querétaro is a wine region located in central Mexico, known for producing high-quality wines that reflect the region’s unique climate and terroir. Despite being a relatively new wine region, Querétaro has gained a reputation for its innovative winemaking techniques and commitment to sustainable viticulture.
Querétaro’s wine industry is centered around the city of Santiago de Querétaro, which is located in the state of Querétaro. The region benefits from a semi-arid climate, with hot days and cool nights that allow the grapes to ripen slowly and retain their natural acidity. The soils in Querétaro are primarily volcanic, which gives the wines a distinct mineral character.
The most widely planted grape varieties in Querétaro are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Tempranillo, although there are also some experimental plantings of less common varieties like Viognier and Nebbiolo. Many winemakers in Querétaro are focused on producing wines that express the region’s unique terroir, using sustainable and organic farming practices to ensure that the grapes are of the highest quality.
One of the key factors that sets Querétaro apart from other Mexican wine regions is its altitude. Many of the vineyards in Querétaro are located at elevations of over 2,000 meters above sea level, which makes them some of the highest vineyards in the world. The high altitude has a number of benefits for winemaking, including cooler temperatures and increased UV radiation, which can help the grapes develop more intense flavors and aromas.
Another factor that makes Querétaro unique is its use of underground wine cellars, or cavas. These cellars are carved out of the region’s volcanic rock, and provide a natural environment for aging wines. The constant temperature and humidity in the cellars creates an ideal environment for aging high-quality wines.
Querétaro’s wine industry is relatively small compared to other wine regions in Mexico, but it is growing rapidly. Many of the region’s winemakers are young and enthusiastic, and are committed to producing world-class wines that showcase the unique qualities of Querétaro’s terroir. The region has already gained recognition for its high-quality wines, winning numerous awards and accolades at international wine competitions.
Overall, Querétaro is an exciting and dynamic wine region that is worth keeping an eye on. With its unique climate, altitude, and terroir, the region has the potential to produce some truly exceptional wines that will put Mexico on the map as a serious player in the global wine industry.
Despite being a relatively small producer compared to other countries, the Mexican wine industry has experienced significant growth in recent years. According to recent data, Mexico was the second-fastest-growing wine-producing country in the world in 2019, with a production increase of 14.7% compared to the previous year. This growth is driven by both increased domestic consumption and growing exports to international markets.
