Baja Culinary Expedition
A signature experience of the San Diego Food + Wine Festival, the Baja Culinary Expedition returns for another unforgettable journey through Valle de Guadalupe. Curated and hosted by Baja Wine + Food founder Fernando Gaxiola, this all-inclusive cross-border adventure offers rare access to the celebrated chefs, legendary winemakers, and extraordinary culinary destinations that define Mexico’s premier wine region.
From private tastings with renowned vintners and reserve wines at Baja’s oldest winery to Michelin-recognized dining and unforgettable meals created by some of Baja’s most acclaimed chefs, each stop has been thoughtfully curated to showcase the people, places, and flavors that have shaped Valle de Guadalupe into one of North America’s most celebrated food and wine destinations.
More than a day trip, this is an invitation behind the scenes—where remarkable wines, exceptional cuisine, and the region’s most influential voices come together for an experience few will ever have the opportunity to enjoy.
Baja Culinary Expedition
DATE:
Thursday
November 5, 2026
7:30 AM – 10 PM
PICK UP + DROP OFF LOCATION:
Moniker General
2860 Sims Rd
San Diego, CA 92106
BAJA CULINARY EXPEDITION ITINERARY
Immersive Wine, Olive Oil + Chocolate Experience at Santo Tomás
Our expedition begins with an exclusive visit to Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California, founded in 1888. We’ll have the privilege of being hosted by owner Santiago Cosío Pando, alongside renowned winemakers Lulú Martínez and David Nágera, who will share the rich heritage behind one of Mexico’s most iconic wineries.
Our visit includes a guided tour of the estate, a tasting of premium reserve wines, an olive oil tasting, and a chocolate and wine pairing experience.
Al Fresco Family-Style Lunch at Villa Torél
Our expedition continues at the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand restaurant Villa Torél, where Chef Alfredo Villanueva will personally welcome our group and curate a seasonal Farm and Ocean-to-Table menu accompanied by Bodegas de Santo Tomás wines.
With winemakers joining us at the table, we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the breathtaking mountains of San Antonio de las Minas in Valle de Guadalupe.
Wine Encounter with Mexico's Legendary Vintners at Fireside
This gathering brings together some of Valle de Guadalupe’s most iconic vintners—rarely found around the same table. Distinguished guests include Natalia Badan of Mogor Badan, Fernando Pérez Castro of Lomita and Finca La Carrodilla, Eileen and Phil Gregory of Vena Cava, Kris Magnussen of Lechuza, and the legendary Don Camillo Magoni of Bodegas Magoni.
Set against panoramic views at Fireside in Mira Earth Studios, this unforgettable experience includes wines from each winery paired with small bites by celebrated chefs José Luis Hinostroza and Tomás Gastélum.
Fine Dining Culinary Experience at Diego Hernández Restaurant
The day concludes with an extraordinary multi-course dining experience by acclaimed chef Diego Hernández-Baquedano, one of the pioneers of modern Baja cuisine.
Created exclusively for our group, the evening’s menu is inspired by Corazón de Tierra—Hernández’s former restaurant that became the first in Valle de Guadalupe to earn a place on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants and helped establish the region as one of Mexico’s premier culinary destinations. Each course will be thoughtfully paired with a curated selection of premium and reserve wines from renowned regional wineries.
PARTICIPATING TALENT
EXPLORE THE GRAND WEEKEND
Friday, November 6
Saturday, November 7
Sunday, November 8
IMPORTANT INFO
- Premium round trip transportation in a private chauffeured vehicle
- All food and wine experiences
- Trip planning & concierge service
- Professional Baja Ambassadors (hosts/guides)
- All taxes and gratuities at restaurants and wineries (host’s gratuity not included)
GRAND FIESTA SPONSORS
