Wines From Mexico

By:
Jeffrey M. Cohen, CMS, Wine Specialist

In this edition of Taste, I would like to tell you of an event that took place a couple of weeks ago. I was invited to a tasting at one of my favorite restaurants, Chama Gaucha. I met up with Tom Bracamontes of La Competencia Imports. This was an amazing blast from the past. For the early Napa Trip members, Tom was the gentleman that was instrumental in our first stop on our trip at Mi Sueno. To help jog your memories, that was the office park visit that we all stopped at in disbelief. We walked in and there was a handmade Mexican food spread that was over the top. We actually were greeted by three different vineyards and three sets of wines, and then … came the tequila. That was certainly a jump start for that trip. I can’t say much more because, “What happens in Napa stays in Napa!!!”

So, back to my tasting. Tom has left the Mi Sueno group and is now constructing wines from Mexico into a conglomerate of a wine portfolio. He and his team are working on building the wine industry, to partner up as one united group. They are trying to build it with different growing regions very much like California. In the end, the philosophy that is being used is “what is good for one will be good for all.” The same remains the same in Napa and Sonoma. “It is important to have vacationers come to us and everybody will succeed.”

I won’t take you through the entire tasting because we tasted through about a dozen wines. Some highlights that we tasted were the 2021 Bruma ‘Plan B’ Sauvignon Blanc. This was nicely acidic and would be perfect with shrimp or oysters with plenty of cocktail and hot sauce. Another was the 2022 Lagrimas Chardonnay from Ensenada. This was light and crisp with nice tropical notes. Very opposite of a heavy Napa or Sonoma chardonnay. Neutral oak is used so there isn’t a lot of manipulation. Just fresh fruit. 

My three favorites were all reds, maybe due to where I was and what we were eating. We enjoyed the 2019 Tribos Entrelazo, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Shiraz from Coahuila. The 2021 Bruma Ocho Reserva Mezcla is from the Valle de Guadalupe and is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. The last wine that I will tell you about is the Adobe Guadalupe ‘Gabriel.’ This is a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Malbec.

I can’t speak about which of the steak choices were best but I absolutely can tell you that with the wine line-up that we had, it was an amazing boost to an already delicious lunch.

Jeff

Jeffrey M. Cohen, CMS, is the Wine Specialist/Beverage Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at jcohen@cordilleraranch.com and 210.677.9234.

You Might Also Enjoy....
Staff Profile

Christopher Krotke

My 30 years in hospitality, progressing through the ranks into leadership roles, have fully prepared me for this position. Over the past decade, I’ve worked in exclusive private clubs and high-end private dining environments across Nevada, California and Texas, where attention to detail, consistency and elevated service are essential. Every role has contributed to my ability to lead teams, refine operations and deliver exceptional experiences.

Read More »
Manager's Message

Celebrating Excellence at Cordillera Ranch

The first quarter of the year brought outstanding dedication, teamwork and service across our community, and we’re proud to recognize our Q1 C-a-Star recipients who embody the spirit of Cordillera Ranch — delivering exceptional experiences, supporting their teams, and setting a standard of excellence that inspires us all. Their hard work doesn’t just keep our operations running smoothly; it elevates the entire Ranch experience for members, guests and colleagues alike.

Read More »
Golf

The Team Driving the Golf Experience at Cordillera Ranch

As the new Director of Golf at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, I couldn’t be more excited to work alongside this exceptional Golf Operations and Instructional Team. From day one, their experience, passion for the game and genuine commitment to our members have stood out. Whether you’re sharpening your skills, trying something new or simply taking in the beauty of the course, this team is here to support golfers of every level with enthusiasm and care.

Read More »
Club Highlights

Celebrating Two Decades of Community and Club Excellence

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch was something our team did not take lightly. We wanted to create an event worthy of honoring a Club we all love and call home — something the owners would be proud of and members would remember for years to come.

Read More »