Easter in the Wine Region
For years, Baja California has been recognized as a popular spot for spring break revelers, but this perception is shifting. The region now offers a fresh appeal for travelers seeking more than just margaritas. By veering off the well-trodden path, intrepid explorers will discover an array of delightful surprises, especially during the Easter season.
A short journey through the scenic grapevines and orange groves of the Guadalupe Valley leads to the En’Kanto winery, the host of a charming Easter egg hunt each year. Participants can also visit the winery’s heritage chicken farm, noted for its beautiful purebred hens that lay multicolored eggs.
The tradition of Easter eggs has roots in ancient symbolism, representing new life and springtime. The act of decorating eggs dates back to the 13th century, with the first recorded Easter egg hunt occurring in Germany in the 16th century. Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, used eggs as a symbol of life and resurrection, a tradition that delights children around the world today.
I had the pleasure of visiting the vineyard, owned by Tom and Eva, who introduced me to their friend Cassie. During our chat, Cassie shared how her desire for fresh eggs snowballed into a thriving purebred chicken farm in Baja California. The farm now boasts various breeds, each more stunning than the last, adorned in a spectrum of colorful plumage.
Cassie, with her self-deprecating humor, talks about the quirks of being a poultry farmer. Titles like “Chief Hen’Kanto Officer” and “Madam Hatch-a-lot” add a playful touch to her serious commitment. Maintaining the breed requires careful management and spatial arrangements to prevent the mixing of breeds, which is something Cassie has become adept at handling.
Her love for the art of breeding chickens has led her to invest in multiple incubators, enabling a continuous cycle of chick hatching and breeding. This process, known jokingly among poultry enthusiasts as “Chicken Math,” sees Cassie’s flock grow with each new chick and captures her passion for the craft.
The En’Kanto vineyard provides a picturesque setting year-round, from the emerging grape leaves in spring to the bountiful harvests in the fall. On-site, visitors can savor a variety of homemade dishes, including omelets made from the freshest eggs. For a memorable experience, visit Friday through Sunday and let them know you heard about it from Martina.
In Other News:
Baja California Weather Alert: Residents should prepare for strong winds, choppy seas, and cooler temperatures, as a new weather front approaches, impacting local activities and travel plans.
Massive Fuel Seizure in Ensenada: Authorities made a significant bust, uncovering nearly 2.1 million gallons of stolen gasoline, highlighting ongoing challenges in combating fuel theft in the region.
Come Join the Fun at the Vineyard Fiesta in Valle de Guadalupe! The region’s vineyards invite visitors for a festive celebration of wine, food, and cultural activities, promising a delightful escapade in the heart of Baja’s wine country.
Stay informed with the latest updates and happenings by visiting our site, TJGringo.com.