Things to Do in Casa Rondena Winery, United States of America

Casa Rondena Winery is nestled in the picturesque North Valley of Albuquerque, New Mexico, offering visitors a taste of Tuscany in the high desert Southwest. This family-owned winery, established in 1995, sits on 34 acres of beautiful vineyard land with stunning views of the Sandia Mountains. The winery is renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture, complete with a charming villa and underground wine caves that create an authentic European atmosphere. The surrounding Albuquerque area provides the perfect backdrop for wine enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. With its rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, high desert landscape, and vibrant arts scene, the region offers a unique blend of Old World charm and Southwestern authenticity. Visitors can enjoy world-class wines while experiencing the area's distinctive culture, outdoor adventures, and culinary traditions that make this corner of New Mexico truly special.

Top Things to Do in Casa Rondena Winery

Wine Tasting at Casa Rondena

Experience guided wine tastings in the beautiful Mediterranean-style tasting room or on the scenic patio overlooking the vineyards. Sample award-winning wines including their signature Meritage blends, Tempranillo, and unique New Mexican varietals while learning about the winemaking process. The knowledgeable staff provides insights into each wine's characteristics and the vineyard's sustainable farming practices.

Booking Tip: Tastings typically cost $15-25 per person and are available daily, but reservations are recommended especially for weekends and groups. Visit during weekdays for a more intimate experience, and consider booking the VIP tasting for access to reserve wines.

Vineyard Tours and Wine Cave Exploration

Take guided tours through the 34-acre vineyard and explore the fascinating underground wine caves where Casa Rondena ages its premium wines. Learn about high-altitude viticulture in New Mexico's unique terroir and discover how the natural cave system maintains perfect temperature and humidity for wine aging. The tour includes insights into sustainable farming practices and the history of winemaking in the region.

Booking Tip: Tours are offered several times daily and cost around $20-30 per person, often including tastings. Book morning tours during summer months to avoid heat, and wear comfortable walking shoes for vineyard exploration.

Hot Air Balloon Rides Over Wine Country

Experience breathtaking aerial views of Casa Rondena Winery and the Rio Grande Valley during a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Float peacefully over the vineyards, ancient volcanic escarpment, and high desert landscape while enjoying panoramic views of the Sandia and Jemez Mountains. Many flights conclude with champagne toasts and light breakfast celebrations.

Booking Tip: Balloon rides cost $150-250 per person and require early morning departure (around 5-6 AM). Book 2-3 days in advance and have backup dates as flights depend on weather conditions. October through April offer the most reliable flying weather.

Petroglyph National Monument Exploration

Discover ancient Native American rock art at nearby Petroglyph National Monument, featuring over 24,000 petroglyphs carved into volcanic rocks by ancestral Puebloan people. Hike well-maintained trails through the escarpment while viewing these remarkable cultural artifacts dating back 400-700 years. The monument offers multiple trail options suitable for various fitness levels.

Booking Tip: Entry is free but parking fills up quickly on weekends. Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography. Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for rocky terrain.

Old Town Albuquerque Cultural Experience

Explore historic Old Town Albuquerque, founded in 1706, featuring adobe buildings, art galleries, museums, and traditional craft shops surrounding the original town plaza. Visit San Felipe de Neri Church, browse Native American jewelry and pottery, and experience authentic New Mexican culture through local artisans and street performers. The area offers numerous restaurants serving traditional regional cuisine.

Booking Tip: Free to explore, though museum entries cost $3-10 each. Visit Tuesday-Sunday when most galleries and shops are open. Parking can be challenging on weekends, so consider walking from nearby areas or using ride-sharing services.

Getting There

Casa Rondena Winery is located approximately 15 minutes north of downtown Albuquerque. The closest airport is Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about 25 minutes away by car. Rental cars are readily available at the airport and provide the most convenient access to the winery. From the airport, take I-25 north to Alameda Boulevard, then head west to reach the North Valley area. Amtrak's Southwest Chief serves Albuquerque with connections to major cities, while Greyhound and other bus services also provide regional transportation options.

Getting Around

A rental car is highly recommended for visiting Casa Rondena and exploring the greater Albuquerque area, as public transportation to the winery is limited. The winery is easily accessible via major roads, with ample parking available on-site. For those staying in Albuquerque, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, though availability may be limited in the North Valley. ABQ RIDE public bus system serves the metropolitan area but doesn't directly serve the winery location. Many visitors combine their winery visit with other North Valley attractions, making a car essential for efficient touring.

Where to Stay

Old Town Albuquerque

Downtown Albuquerque

Northeast Heights

North Valley

Westside/Rio Rancho

Airport Area

Food & Dining

The Casa Rondena area and greater Albuquerque offer exceptional New Mexican cuisine featuring distinctive flavors like green and red chile, posole, and sopaipillas. Old Town Albuquerque provides numerous traditional restaurants serving authentic regional specialties, while downtown offers modern interpretations of Southwestern cuisine alongside international options. Many establishments feature locally-sourced ingredients and pair perfectly with Casa Rondena wines. The North Valley area includes family-owned restaurants and food trucks serving authentic Mexican and New Mexican dishes, while upscale dining options in the Northeast Heights offer wine-friendly menus ideal for extending your tasting experience.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Casa Rondena Winery is during spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild and perfect for outdoor tastings and vineyard walks. These seasons also coincide with beautiful vineyard scenery - spring blooms and fall harvest activities. Summer can be hot but offers longer daylight hours and frequent afternoon thunderstorms that create dramatic skies. Winter visits provide a cozy atmosphere in the tasting room with fewer crowds, though some outdoor activities may be limited. Harvest season (August-September) offers special experiences but requires advance booking due to increased activity.

Insider Tips

Visit during harvest season for special events and the chance to participate in grape stomping activities, but book well in advance as these experiences fill up quickly.

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the winery grounds - Casa Rondena welcomes outside food and offers beautiful spots for dining al fresco with mountain views.

Join the wine club for exclusive access to limited releases and special member events, plus significant discounts on purchases and tastings throughout the year.

Things to Do in Casa Rondena Winery