By Natalia Rueda 
A Tragic Loss in the World of Mexican Wine
The tragic death of Ricardo Vega Cámara, respected winemaker and owner of the famous Cuna de Tierra vineyard in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, has shocked both the local community and the Mexican wine industry. Vega Cámara, 55, was shot dead over the weekend in Apaseo el Grande, a municipality in central Mexico known for its growing wine industry. His death has mourned many in the region and beyond.
Vega Cámara was more than just a successful businessman; he was a key figure in the development of Mexico’s wine sector. He transformed Cuna de Tierra into one of the most important wineries in the Bajío region, which has become a prominent wine-producing area. Under his leadership, the vineyard became known not only for its exceptional wines but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability. Over the years, Cuna de Tierra became a popular destination for tourists, further elevating the wine industry in Guanajuato.
The news of his murder was confirmed by local authorities and the mayor of San Miguel de Allende, Mauricio Trejo, who expressed deep condolences. Trejo also called for urgent action from the state government to address the rising concerns about public safety. The crime took place along the Apaseo el Grande-Celaya highway, a route that’s commonly traveled by locals and tourists alike. While details about the incident remain unclear, it’s reported that Vega Cámara was traveling in the area when he was attacked.
“I deeply regret and strongly condemn the cowardly murder of Ricardo Vega, owner of the Cuna de Tierra vineyard. In Guanajuato insecurity reigns. @LibiaDennise the security strategy must give results NOW! A regrettable loss for the wine sector”.
Lamento profundamente y condeno enérgicamente el cobarde asesinato de Ricardo Vega, dueño del viñedo Cuna de Tierra.
— Mauricio Trejo (@MauricioTrejoP) December 15, 2024
En Guanajuato REINA la inseguridad. @LibiaDennise la estrategia de seguridad debe dar resultados YA!
Una lamentable pérdida para el sector vitivinícola.
The Mexican Wine Council also mourned Vega Cámara’s death, calling him a “passionate promoter of Mexican wine” and an “outstanding leader” in the industry.
The murder has raised alarms about the worsening violence in Guanajuato, a state that has long struggled with organized crime. Local officials, including Trejo, are calling on the state government to do more to combat the increasing violence that is affecting both residents and business leaders in the region. Reports indicate that the area where Vega Cámara was killed is controlled by factions of the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel, which is in conflict with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) for control of the territory.