anasazi fields winery

Off the beaten path, a little further than my Android Navigator thought we should go, was the one-man winery of Placitas. The varietals feature local grapes fermented with local whole fruits for unique, sulfite-free wines for the most part. The winemaster is a former scientist whole can explain more about the wine process than 20 visits to the commercial mega-wineries in Napa Sonoma. Drive the 20 minutes out of Albuquerque and pick up some really tasty wines.

The winery hosts many art shows, concerts, poetry readings and special events during the year. If you get a chance to attend one of these events, by all means go! I've personally been to many over the years and especially enjoy the Placitas Arts & Crafts Show here (and at 2 other venues in Placitas) every mid-November. I don't believe that during a normal business day there is food available for purchase, just wines. But, I do know that during many of the winery events, food is catered in for sale.Anasazi Fields is located in the lovely, quaint village of Placitas. I-25 north from Albuquerque. Take Exit 242 and head east (right) towards the mountains, about 6 scenic miles. Camino de los Pueblitos is on the left, just before you get to the Presbyterian Church. A new sign was put up recently which makes spotting this road much easier now. The driveway to the winery will be on your left at the fork in the road and is clearly marked.The area is shady and peaceful. The wines made here are not the usual grape-based wines, but instead made from other fruits such as raspberries and apricots. The owners are friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful.

We attended a local concert hosted by the Anasazi Fields Winery for a special event and just fell in love with the cozy atmosphere, ambiance and great food catered by The Seasonal Palate. Though chilly outside, an open bonfire was going, and a rustic covered arena was set up with tables and chairs for diners and extra chairs for those who wanted to just chill out and enjoy the wine and music. Wines are truly delicious! Staff was very informative and helpful without being pushy. We purchased two bottles of red wine and will definitely go back for more.Though the wine cellar was not open this particular evening, one of the owners invited us to return for a tour, which we plan to do. He also spent time with us giving a history of the vineyard and how they make certain wines. The Anasazi Fields Winery is very community oriented and they host several art shows, concerts and other events throughout the year. They will also rent their facilities for certain special occasions.Bottom line: The Anasazi Fields Winery features delicious local wines and has a charming off-the-beaten-path location in Placitas, New Mexico. It's worth a visit.