News and Events

Jim Hammond, the Southwestern Wine Guy, Uses Video, Other Communications Tools to Highlight the Wine Industry in New Mexico

June 24, 2014 – Corrales, NM—What would be your answer if someone asked you to name the first successful wine region in the United States? Would you automatically say California? Most people would, but the truth may surprise you. Read the feature news release

New: Spirits of New Mexico radio show

Beginning January 4, 2014, I’ll be hosting a weekly radio show called The Spirits of New Mexico. Each Saturday, I will offer insights into the wines, beers, spirits and foods of New Mexico and talk to winemakers, brewers, chefs, restaurateurs and others who are celebrating the unique New Mexico food and wine experience. The show will air on Rock of Talk Radio, 1600 AM or 95.9 FM, at 11:30 in the morning. Be sure to tune in, and if you have news to share or a question to ask about food and drink in New Mexico, contact me at Jim@southwesternwineguy.com.

Interview with Train’s Jimmy Stafford

It was a pleasure talking with band member Jimmy, who discussed wine, the band’s winery, Save Me, San Francisco Wine Co, being in a band and even Wines of Enchantment, about which he was very excited and interested! I wrote an article for Examiner.com that includes the entire interview and my review of their wines. All in all, a good night!

Winemakers Cruise of the Caribbean

Combining the delights of a sea cruise of the romantic waters of the Caribbean with an excursion of wines usually only found on dry land, the 2013 Winemakers Cruise was our ticket to culinary delights, a relaxing sea cruise and intimate contact with winemakers from across the United States.

The 2013 cruise began and ended at the port of Fort Lauderdale. This a regular stop of Southwest Airlines making access to the port easy and affordable. The cruise began on November 17 and ended back at Fort Lauderdale on November 24. The Holland America cruise ship was loaded with amenities and activities besides the special wine events that only Winemaker Cruise members enjoy.

There were four ports of call. The first was storied and historical Grand Turk;  a haven for snorkeling and deep sea fishing. Here the sea drops 7,000 feet into the deep. San Juan Puerto Rico is the oldest city in US territory; founded in 1521 by Juan Ponce de León. Boasting one of the largest natural harbors in the Caribbean, visit the natural wonders of El Yunque Rain Forest, or walk the Camitillo Trail through the Palo Colorado forest. Explore Old San Juan of bike the Piñones Reserve.

The third port of call was Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas for sailing, relaxing or sightseeing. Browse the shop-lined streets of Charlotte Amalie which is called the “duty-free shopping capital of the world.” The fourth port of call was Half Moon Cay. Visit Stingray Cove or ride a horse to a deserted beach and into the surf.

If you missed this one, they are offered every year at WineMaker’s Cruise