Ensenada’s “Sunset” Wine Experience Blends Flavor, Culture and Hospitality

-Editorial

As the sun dipped below the Pacific, painting the sky with brilliant shades of orange and gold, guests gathered at Hotel Coral & Marina for the July 31 edition of “Atardeceres de Vinos & Entrantes,” a culinary experience that continues to grow as one of Ensenada’s most distinctive food and wine attractions.

Designed to celebrate Baja California’s renowned wine culture and regional gastronomy, the event brought together local residents and visitors for an evening of expertly crafted cuisine, thoughtfully paired wines and spectacular waterfront views overlooking Ensenada’s marina.

The evening was hosted by Miguel Figueroa, sommelier at Coral & Marina, who guided guests through each course while introducing the featured winery, special guests and the inspiration behind every pairing. His presentation added an educational element to the experience, allowing attendees to learn more about the wines and the stories behind them.

Leading the kitchen was Chef Esteban Arellano, executive chef of BC Bistro & Cava, who designed a four-course menu inspired by the traditional flavors of his native state of Guerrero. By combining authentic recipes with contemporary presentation, Arellano created a menu that reflected both his culinary roots and Baja California’s reputation as one of Mexico’s leading gastronomic destinations.

The evening began with a refreshing seafood cocktail paired with Roganto Blanco, a crisp white blend that complemented the fresh coastal flavors. The second course featured a Guerrero-style chicken tamal served alongside Roganto Chardonnay, creating a balanced pairing that highlighted both the dish and the wine without overpowering either.

Before the main course, guests enjoyed a smooth mamey sorbet, served as a palate cleanser before the evening’s heartier flavors.

The centerpiece of the dinner was a flavorful Guerrero-style oven-roasted suckling pig served on artisan bolillo bread, paired with two signature red wines from Vinícola Roganto: the Mezcla Bordalesa Gran Reserva and the winery’s Nebbiolo. The carefully selected wines complemented the richness of the dish while showcasing the quality of Baja California’s winemaking tradition.

Dessert featured a delicate date sponge cake, providing a memorable conclusion to the culinary journey.

The evening’s featured winery, Vinícola Roganto, was represented by the son of the co-founder Antonio Escalante, who shared the winery’s history and philosophy with attendees. Founded by Escalante and Rogelio Sánchez, the winery has become known for producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Baja California’s wine country, contributing to the region’s growing international recognition.

More than a wine dinner, “Atardeceres de Vinos & Entrantes” celebrates the collaboration between chefs, winemakers and hospitality professionals dedicated to promoting the culinary identity of Baja California. Each edition features a different winery and menu, encouraging guests to discover new wines while experiencing the creativity of local chefs.

The event has also become an important tourism attraction for Coral & Marina Hotel, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Ensenada beyond its scenic coastline. With panoramic marina views, attentive service and an intimate atmosphere, the dinners invite guests to slow down, savor each course and connect with the people behind the region’s celebrated food and wine culture.

As culinary and wine tourism continue to attract travelers from across Mexico, the United States and beyond, experiences like these help strengthen Ensenada’s reputation as one of the country’s premier gastronomic destinations. They showcase not only the quality of Baja California’s wines, but also the creativity, hospitality and cultural richness that define the region.

For those planning a visit to Ensenada, “Atardeceres de Vinos & Entrantes” is more than an elegant evening of food and wine. It is an opportunity to experience the flavors, traditions and warm hospitality that have made the city a favorite destination for culinary travelers.

With every new edition featuring a different winery and menu, it remains an experience worth following for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Baja California.