While I enjoy an occasional glass of chilled Chardonnay, I never imagined being massaged with it—until my visit to the Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos Golf and Spa Resort.
Spa treatments that use winemaking by-products may sound unusual, but vinotherapy is gaining popularity. Cosmetic vinotherapy began in France in 1999 with Les Sources de Caudalie Spa in Bordeaux, based on research by pharmacologist Dr. Joseph Vercauteron at the University of Bordeaux. He discovered that grape juice and polyphenol extracts from grape seeds—rich in antioxidants and natural compounds produced during fermentation—can help protect skin and slow signs of aging. As a Southern California native who’s spent too much time in the sun, I was intrigued.
The five-star Fiesta Americana Grand’s Somma Wine Spa is the only wine spa in Baja and among the first in Mexico. The spa draws inspiration from grapes grown in Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe, where a desert climate cooled by Pacific breezes creates ideal conditions for vineyards.
On a warm, clear late summer afternoon I arrived at the resort and was guided to the spa by manager Evy Romeike, who gave me a quick tour. The decor is modern and calming, with marble, dark wood, aluminum accents, crystal doors and Venetian tiles. Greens and purples echo the region’s grapes, while large windows frame views of the sea.
Somma Wine Spa uses the Olavie Chardonnay line, which features Chardonnay grape seed extract reported to be significantly more potent than Vitamin E. The extract is taken immediately after harvest and before fermentation to preserve maximum antioxidant levels.
In the tranquil lounge, Annel and Blair welcomed me with a small but memorable amenity: a single red grape stuffed with goat cheese, presented beautifully and deliciously. Romeike then introduced my therapist, Irma Sanchez, an experienced aesthetician and body therapies technician. After slipping into a white terry robe and slippers, I toured several treatment rooms.
The Clarete room, named after the local practice of blending Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon to create El Gran Vino Tinto, is ideal for couples. It includes a private Jacuzzi, steam room and shower. Bright pink bougainvillea petals lined the steps into the Jacuzzi, where couples can relax in warm water while enjoying hors d’oeuvres paired with premium regional wines—pure indulgence.
Champagne lovers will appreciate the Methode Champenoise treatment room, where “Cleopatra” milk baths and Champagne bubble baths are enjoyed in a hydro-chromotherapy tub, followed by sparkling white wine body treatments.
In the dimly lit facial rooms, extracts from dark red grapes are used to reduce visible signs of aging and stress while enhancing antioxidant benefits in the circulation. For guests who prefer an ocean view, three beach huts—Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec and Zinfandel—provide treatments with sea vistas.
Before my treatment, Sanchez offered a small glass of refreshing Chardonnay sorbet. I was led to one of the Chardonnay treatment rooms, bright and facing the ocean, while red wine rooms are intentionally darker and more secluded. I lay on the table, anticipating the spa’s signature “Le Vin” massage.
I appreciated the choice of music: instead of the typical New Age tracks, Sanchez selected soothing classical pieces that suited my tastes. Sunlight warmed the room as I closed my eyes and surrendered to relaxation.
Preferring gentler work on tight muscles, I requested a light-to-medium pressure massage. Sanchez honored that preference, easing knots slowly and comfortably so I relaxed without flinching. The Olavie aromatic oils gave a subtle wine-like scent—pleasant but not overpowering. Combined with the music, the treatment carried me toward a deep, peaceful rest.
Like all good massages, the session ended before I was ready to leave. Sanchez encouraged a slow return to wakefulness. I declined an additional Jacuzzi soak, concerned I might be too lethargic for dinner, and instead returned to the lounge to finish my experience. Unlike many spas that offer only herbal tea afterward, Somma Wine Spa also serves a glass of the day’s featured wine—a fitting touch for a wine-focused retreat.
Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort
Carretera Transpeninsular, Km. 10.3
Col. Cabo del Sol
Los Cabos, B.C.S. 23410
tel 52 624 145 62 00