Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put New Mexico on the Map
Just a short drive north of Albuquerque lies the town of Santa Fe, where the iconic Second Street Brewery has become a gathering place for craft beer lovers. Nestled in the city’s historic downtown district, it offers a unique blend of local culture and brewing artistry. Visitors can savor a flight of their rotating house-made ales while seated on the outdoor patio, overlooking the vibrant plaza just steps away. What sets Second Street apart is its commitment to marrying traditional brewing methods with New Mexico’s distinct ingredients, such as locally sourced chili peppers and regional hops. The crisp fall months, when the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are crowned with their first dusting of snow, provide an especially magical backdrop to enjoy a pint here.
Farther south near Las Cruces, in the Mesilla Valley, the St. Clair Winery & Bistro offers a distinct experience for wine enthusiasts. About a 15-minute drive west of the city center, this family-owned winery sits among rolling vineyards that thrive in the high desert climate, nourished by the Rio Grande’s irrigation. Guests can tour the vineyards and cellar before settling in for a tasting that showcases varietals like Tempranillo and Viognier, grapes that flourish in New Mexico’s sunny, arid conditions. St. Clair is known for its modern winemaking techniques combined with a deep respect for the land’s heritage. The best time to visit is late spring when the vines burst into verdant life, and the desert evenings are cool and inviting for a sunset sip beneath the stars.
In the northern reaches of the state, Taos Brewing Company offers a compelling stop about 1.5 hours north of Santa Fe. Located near the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, this brewery draws inspiration from the rugged landscapes and artistic spirit of the Taos area. Visitors can hike the nearby Rim Trail, a moderately challenging route that offers sweeping views of the gorge below, then head back into town for a taste of their flagship beers. Their use of alpine-inspired brewing techniques reflects the region’s mountainous terrain and cooler climate. The brewery’s taproom is cozy, often filled with locals who share stories about the area’s rich history in art and indigenous culture. Winter months add charm as snow blankets the peaks, making a warm beer after outdoor adventures especially satisfying.
Traveling southeast, the village of Ruidoso, nestled in the Lincoln National Forest about three hours from Albuquerque, hosts the Noisy Water Winery. This spot is unique for its blend of New Mexican charm and winemaking that embraces the high-altitude environment. The winery’s tasting room offers panoramic views of the forested hills and the distant Mescalero Apache reservation. Here, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the lush gardens in summer or cozy up near the tasting room’s fireplace during chilly autumn evenings. Noisy Water’s focus on small-batch, artisanal wines means each sip tells a story of the land’s volcanic soil and mountain breezes, making it a standout among southern New Mexico’s offerings.
Just outside of Albuquerque, in the village of Tijeras, the Canteen Brewhouse holds a special place in New Mexico’s craft beer scene. Roughly a 25-minute drive east of the city, it’s situated near the Cibola National Forest, where hiking the Sandia Mountains offers an invigorating prelude to sampling their brews. The brewery is uniquely dedicated to producing a lineup that honors New Mexican flavors, featuring beers brewed with ingredients like blue corn and chile. Their lively taproom often hosts community events, fostering a sense of local camaraderie. Visiting in late summer lets you catch mild weather perfect for combining an outdoor adventure with a refreshing beer tasting afterward.
Heading west to the scenic town of Espanola, about 45 minutes north of Santa Fe, the Sierra Blanca Brewing Company crafts beers that reflect the multicultural heritage of Northern New Mexico. The brewery’s location near the Rio Chama River provides a stunning setting to relax after exploring nearby hiking trails or visiting the historic Plaza. Sierra Blanca is known for its bold, flavorful brews that incorporate native fruits and spices, setting it apart from more conventional breweries. The radiant spring months, with wildflowers blooming along the riverbanks, are an idyllic time to experience their outdoor patio offerings.
Not to be overlooked is Gruet Winery, situated in Albuquerque’s North Valley, roughly 10 minutes from downtown. This place has helped put New Mexico on the map as a serious contender in sparkling wines. Gruet’s vineyards stretch across the dry, sunny foothills of the Sandia Mountains, where the altitude and climate mimic the conditions of Champagne, France. Visitors can tour the bubbly-focused production facility and sample a range of elegant sparkling wines in the tasting room. The best time to visit is during the winter holiday season, when festive lights enhance the cozy ambiance, making it a perfect spot for celebratory sips in the heart of New Mexico.
Together, these breweries, wineries, and distilleries offer more than beverages—they provide a vivid taste of New Mexico’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions. From the high desert vineyards near Las Cruces to the alpine-inspired brews of Taos and the historic streets of Santa Fe, the state’s craft beverage scene invites travelers to explore both its natural beauty and its innovative spirit in every glass.