L. A. Cetto Wine Tasting at The Wine Bar, May 24, 2019

Romeo & Julieta Restaurant, Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos

The third wine tasting in The Wine Bar at Romeo & Julieta since its grand opening March 22, 2019 was held Friday, May 24 with a presentation by L.A. Cetto Winery, an award winning leader in Mexican wines located in the Guadalupe Valley of the Baja. The winery, one of the oldest in Mexico, was founded in 1928 by Italian immigrant Luigi Angelo Cetto and is in its fourth generation of family ownership.

Northern Baja’s abundant microclimates are perfect for wine-growing. The proof is in the tasting. On this particular evening, we sampled a complex Chardonnay from the 2017 Private Reserve with hints of toasted coconut, ripe banana and buttery popcorn giving it a fruity taste with a touch of butter. This wine pairs well with fish, fruits from the sea, ceviche, fish and fowl. Two varietals served were from the Península collection with very defined characteristics, both of Italian origin: the Lyra 2015, a blend of Monte Pulciano, the classic grape of Abruzzo, and Barbera the classic grape of the Piedmont region, and Espaldera 2015 with Sangiovese and Aglianico. Sangiovese is the classic grape of Tuscany (Chianti) and the Aglianico is the grape from the Naples region.

Two reds to pay homage to founder Don Luis Cetto were a Don Luis Merlot with hints of blackberries, plum and spice. It’s a blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Petite Verdot, known as a Bordeaux blend. This wine pairs well with meats, tomato basil sauces and Mexican gastronomy. The Don Luis Terra’s flavors of dried fruits and flowers pairs with game, blue cheese and apples. José R. Ceja Ochoa represented L.A. Cetto and Ricardo Uribe, sommelier, assisted with the pours, which were generous. Tapas of chicken pâté, artichoke hearts and olives stuffed with meat were enjoyed by those participating

Two previous tastings were held, one from the Casa Madero winery on April 24 and Vinedos de la Reina on May 9, both from the Guadalupe Valley of Baja.

Plan now to attend the next tasting to be held Saturday, June 1 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. and sample the wines from El Cielo, another unique winery from Northern Baja of Mexico.

Like a painting, wine is a personal thing — it’s what you like. Come for a taste.

Written by Sandra A. Berry