One hundred years ago, Mexico's longest reigning president attempted to boost the wine industry by granting a Northern Californian a concession to plant high-quality French varieties throughout the country. He also sent the Hungarian ambassador's son on a tour of the country, instructing him to make sure every state had at least one vineyard. Despite these and other efforts to improve Mexican mead, people still prefer uncorking imported bottles. Her view was echoed in Tepotztl n, Morelos, where a shopkeeper unabashedly offered only foreign wines. Malinchismo aside, however, palates of those who do imbibe usually favor beer, tequila, rum or other spirits.
Wine is much less popular in Mexico than elsewhere.
Annual per capita consumption falls short of two 8-ounce glasses, according to industry sources. In the United States, it tops 28 glasses and in France, it s a hearty 260. Baja California's state government exhibit at the Marriott Hotel in Polanco. Awards presentation of Baja California's International Vendimia Fiesta Wine Competition at the Four Seasons Hotel on Paseo de la Reforma. The 10th annual Vendimia Fiesta in Ensenada, Baja California.