Matheson Winery, Rio Rancho - 6 of 44



Mark, William, Karen and Abel

What this "urban" winery lacks in curb appeal it more than makes up for in warmth, wine variety, taste and personality. This award winning winery is located in a non-descript strip mall complex right on Highway 528 in North Rio Rancho at 528 and Sundt. It is owned and operated by Mark Matheson who also founded Assets Grille; Albuquerque's first brew pub. Mr. Matheson's pedigree of brewing and wine making is evident in the knowlege of wine and of the New Mexico wine making industry he delightfully shared with us as we tasted. From hauling the grapes to his winery to pressing, firmenting, bottling and selling, Mr. Matheson does it all. If you don't believe me, there are pictures on the walls to prove it.


Matheson makes mostly red wine so I was a happy camper but we did try all the wines this day; two of which were white. The 2009 Carnivale is a Muscat, Malvaisa and Reisling blend that is sweet yet with a crisp soft finish. The 2007 Chardonnay has a delightful tart/vanilla flavor that isn't buttery. I could imagine sipping the Chardonnay as the last little bit of the summer sun casts long shadows across my newly mown lawn. Or, it would make a great gift for friends who love Chardonnay.  

Award winning Matheson Wine

The five reds range from dry to sweet beginning with the Rio Cuvee which is light bodied and dry with a tart finish to the Doce which is a sweet port made syrupy with brandy. This one was reminisient of the wine I had as a kid during holy communion that warmed me down to my toes. In between lie the Cabernet Sauvignon with a lovely smooth, oak flavor you'd expect from a Cabernet to the Sagio Franc, slightly sweeter and fruiter than the Cabernet to the Tres which is smooth, sweet with hints of spicy cloves.

I took home the Rio Cuvee and the Chardonnay but don't get your hopes up, the Chardonnay is a gift.

As with many of the wineries the wine club has no membership fee and they also offer a Prefered Customer Card that offers increasing discounts, up to 20%, as you purchase wine throughout the year.

If you go: The tasting room is open Wed-Sunday from noon to 5:00. If you ask, Mr. Matheson just might give you a tour of the bottling room.

Screw tops waiting for their perfect pairing.