Just a few weeks ago, we welcomed one of our very first guests on our new wine tour through the historic village of Mesilla, New Mexico — and it turned into a day we won’t forget.

Rachel, a solo traveler from the UK, was visiting southern New Mexico for the first time. She was exploring Old Mesilla Plaza when a local boutique owner told her, “If you really want to experience the soul of this place, go taste the wine.”

She joined our tour the next morning, not quite sure what to expect — but from the moment we set out, she was captivated. As we drove past adobe buildings, pecan orchards, and sun-soaked vineyards, our guide shared the rich (and often surprising) history of winemaking in southern New Mexico — one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the U.S.

Our first stop was a family-run winery just outside of town. Rachel tasted a bold Zinfandel and a smooth local red blend, then chatted with the winemaker about how New Mexico’s high desert climate creates such unique flavors. She even helped label a few bottles — laughing and saying, “This is way better than any wine tour I’ve taken in Europe!”

Later that evening, we ended the tour on a peaceful vineyard patio as the sun set behind the Organ Mountains. The sky turned a warm shade of orange, and we poured a crisp white wine made just down the road. With a plate of local cheeses and chile-infused chocolate in front of her, Rachel smiled and said:

“I didn’t even know Mesilla existed a few days ago… and now I don’t want to leave.”

She left with two bottles in her backpack and plans to return — not just for the wine, but for the warmth of the people and the magic of Mesilla.