Clos de Tres Cantos: Where Wine Meets Art and Sustainability in Baja California

More than a winery, Clos de Tres Cantos is a holistic project, a mixture of viticulture, oenology, gastronomy, music, and art, in an architectural framework designed by Alejandro D’Acosta; a unique crucible of creativity to feel the magic of wine. A boutique winery committed to quality signature wine. Born in Valle de Guadalupe, as a philosophical project as well as sustainable, supportive and socially responsible. Over 90% of all the materials used to build the winery are reclaimed from the region. The Monastic style pyramids rise on the hilltop. The interior of the cellar are lit naturally as the sunlight passes through wine bottles filled with water and alcohol to further enhance the brightness. A sustainable, supportive and socially responsible project, where the organic vineyard produces grapes of the highest quality, the monastery winery assembles the aromas and flavors, so that the wine serves as an engine for sharing knowledge, living experiences , emotions are discovered, and through the Ethos and Logos Civil Association, a legacy is left for future generations.

A Journey Through Time and Taste: Exploring Clos de Tres Cantos in Valle de Guadalupe

As I approached Clos de Tres Cantos, the unique silhouette of its monastic-style pyramids rising against the backdrop of Valle de Guadalupe’s rolling hills immediately captivated me. This wasn’t just another winery; it was a testament to sustainable architecture, a celebration of local culture, and a sanctuary for wine enthusiasts.

The Vision Behind Clos de Tres Cantos

Clos de Tres Cantos is the brainchild of Maria Benitez Cantarera and Joaquín Moya Cussi, a couple whose passion for winemaking is matched only by their commitment to sustainability and respect for Mother Earth, or “Pachamama” as they call it, borrowing from Quechua tradition. Their vision goes beyond producing excellent wines; it encompasses a holistic approach that blends viticulture, oenology, gastronomy, music, and art into a unique experience.

The winery’s name, “Clos de Tres Cantos,” translates to “Enclosure of Three Songs,” hinting at the multifaceted nature of their project. It’s not just about the wine; it’s about the harmony between nature, culture, and human creativity.

Architectural Marvel: Sustainability Meets Creativity

The architectural design of Clos de Tres Cantos, masterfully executed by renowned architect Alejandro D’Acosta, is nothing short of extraordinary. D’Acosta’s vision perfectly aligns with the owners’ philosophy, creating a space that is both functional and deeply symbolic.

Sustainable Construction

One of the most remarkable aspects of Clos de Tres Cantos is its commitment to sustainability in construction. Over 90% of the materials used in building the winery are reclaimed from the region. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also creates a structure that is truly of its place.

As I walked around the property, I marveled at the ingenuity:

Reclaimed Wood and Glass: All wood and glass used in the construction were sourced locally, giving new life to materials that might otherwise have been discarded.
Hand-Cut Stone: The blocks of stone that give the winery its distinctive monastery-like appearance were cut by hand from La Misión rock, showcasing local craftsmanship and reducing transportation costs.
Wine Bottle Windows: In a stroke of genius, wine bottles have been repurposed as decorative windows. These not only add a unique aesthetic touch but also serve a practical purpose by cutting UV light.

Water Conservation

In a region where water is precious, Clos de Tres Cantos takes water conservation seriously. The most dramatic feature of the ecological construction is the roofline. While aesthetically stunning, its primary purpose is water collection:

Rainwater Harvesting: The large dome catches rainwater and morning dew, channeling it through funnels that look like “legs” into a citrine storage system below.
Gray Water System: A sophisticated system diverts gray water through channels out into the vineyard, ensuring that no water goes to waste.

Natural Illumination

The interior of the cellar is a testament to D’Acosta’s innovative approach to natural lighting:

Wine Bottle Skylights: Sunlight passes through wine bottles filled with water and alcohol, creating a magical ambiance while enhancing brightness.

Pyramid Domes: The peak at the top of each pyramid allows for natural illumination while also facilitating heat escape, creating a comfortable environment year-round.

The Winemaking Philosophy

At Clos de Tres Cantos, winemaking is treated as both an art and a science, with a deep respect for tradition and a keen eye on sustainability.

Organic Vineyard Practices

The vineyard is managed as close to organic standards as possible. While official organic certification is challenging due to neighboring properties, the commitment to sustainable viticulture is evident in every aspect of their operation.

Unique Blends

The wines produced at Clos de Tres Cantos reflect the terroir of Valle de Guadalupe while also showcasing the creativity of the winemakers. During my tasting, I was particularly struck by two offerings:

“Nada” (Nothing): A blend of Tempranillo and Petite Syrah, this wine embodies the philosophical underpinnings of the winery. “We are only atoms and molecules. Humans are actually 95% nothing!” The wine, dark and mysterious with fruity aromas and a hint of vanilla from French oak aging, lived up to its contemplative name.

Petite Syrah: A 100% varietal wine that showcased the potential of this grape in the Valle de Guadalupe terroir.

The Cellar Experience

Stepping into the cellar of Clos de Tres Cantos is like entering a sacred space. The heavy swiveling portal opens to reveal a world that seems frozen in time, reminiscent of the early mission days of winemaking in the region.

The great slumbering barrels create a sense of peace in the filtered light. The shaded windows high above invite the moonlight to shine on the barrels. This poetic approach to winemaking underscores the holistic philosophy that permeates every aspect of Clos de Tres Cantos.

Beyond Wine: A Cultural Experience

Clos de Tres Cantos is more than a winery; it’s a cultural hub that celebrates the intersection of various disciplines:

Gastronomy: The on-site restaurant, Ariete, offers a culinary experience that perfectly complements the wines. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with Clos de Tres Cantos wines, creating a harmonious dialogue between food and drink.

Music and Art: The winery regularly hosts events that bring together music, visual arts, and wine, creating a multisensory experience for visitors.

Education: Through the Ethos and Logos Civil Association, Clos de Tres Cantos is committed to sharing knowledge and creating a legacy for future generations.

The Broader Context: Valle de Guadalupe

Clos de Tres Cantos is a shining example of what makes Valle de Guadalupe special. This region, often called “Mexico’s Tuscany,” has been recognized as the third-best wine region of 2022 by USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice. What sets it apart is its diversity – in soil, climate, and cultural influences.

The valley’s history of winemaking dates back 150 years when the first vine was planted by Russian settlers. Since then, it has attracted winemakers, chefs, and hoteliers from around the world, each adding their unique perspective to the region’s tapestry.

A Reflection on Sustainability and Tradition

As I concluded my visit to Clos de Tres Cantos, I was struck by how seamlessly the winery blends innovation with tradition, sustainability with luxury. The hand-cut stone blocks honor the contemplative padres who made the first wines in the region, while the pyramid domes nod to ancient Mayan culture. This fusion of influences creates a space that feels both timeless and thoroughly modern.

The winery’s approach to sustainability – from its water conservation systems to its use of reclaimed materials – serves as a model for how the wine industry can adapt to the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity. It’s a powerful reminder that luxury and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive.

Final Thoughts

Clos de Tres Cantos is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that engages all the senses and challenges the mind. If you are in a hurry, don’t come. This is a place that demands – and rewards – contemplation.

From the moment you set foot on the property, with its sun-washed pathways and the sweet scent of flowering plants carried on the warm wind, to the last sip of wine in the mystical cellar, Clos de Tres Cantos offers a journey through time, taste, and philosophy.

For those seeking more than just a wine tasting, for those who want to understand the soul of Valle de Guadalupe and the potential of sustainable winemaking, Clos de Tres Cantos is an essential stop. It’s a place where every stone, every bottle, and every sip tells a story – of respect for the land, of creative vision, and of the enduring magic of wine.

For More Information:

Baja Bound
ArchDaily
UPROXX
Voyage au Mexique
SanDiegoRed
WineTourism
Trip Advisor