Farm Life

Of Hope and Honey

Beekeeping is an act of hope. There are so many variables to consider when caring for beehives. Access to clean water, sources of nectar and pollen from plants that bloom from spring to fall are all essential for a healthy bee. The added uncertainty of colony collapse, varroa mites and the diseases they might introduce, swarming and abscondment, pesticide exposure and the uncertainties of extreme climate fluctuation are challenges all beekeepers face. And yet we persist. We are fascinated by bee behavior and relationships, and understand the crucial role bees play in keeping plants and thereby humans alive. 

Farm Journal: Herbs

Growing Herbs at Los Poblanos

Herbs. Just the word conjures up delightful associations of fragrance and flavor. With multiple uses across the culinary, beverage and wellness spectrum, a single herb or a blend of multiple essences can really make an experience sing. As we diversify and expand the ways herbs are incorporated in the kitchen, bar and spa, our farm team is increasing the quantity and variety of herbs grown around the farm. Thoughtful conversations between chefs, mixologists and estheticians allow creativity to begin in the farm fields and manifest in the many experiences available here at Los Poblanos. Each herb's potential is being explored and expanded.

Our Distillation Process

Angel's share. Angel's breath. This is what the first delicate puff of lavender essence is called as it rises in a misty, miniature cloud from the spout of the condenser, at the end port of the copper alembic distillation still. This initial puff contains essential oil, hydrosol and the heady aroma of our organic Grosso Lavender fields. 

Hand-harvested in the early morning, our farmers deliver lavender to the distillation hut, where our distillers load the precious plant material into the base and column of the still. The rounded lower portion is filled with fresh well water and heated to the boiling point where the resulting steam pulls the oils and moisture from the lavender. As it is volatilized, the heat and pressure push it up into the swan neck - the graceful copper tube that connects the pointed dome of the still to the barrel of the condenser. 

Welcome Fall on the Farm

Soon, cool, crisp mornings will arrive to mark the change in season after a warm desert summer. Autumn in New Mexico is fast approaching, with roadside stands infusing the air with the warming, unmistakable scent of roasting green chile, as hot air balloons float gently across the horizon. The magnificent fall foliage of our native cottonwood and aspen trees provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the trails of the Sandia Mountains, cycling the nearby Paseo del Bosque Trail or simply enjoying the views from the comfort of your patio. 

Spend Late Summer at Los Poblanos

It's hard to believe we are halfway through this year already, and it's time to get a vacation on the calendar before any more time slips away. If you've been considering a visit to the farm, don't let any more time go by before booking your escape. Late August and early September are the perfect times to sneak in a trip as the weather is still warm and it still feels like summer here in the North Valley. Read on for our favorite ways to spend a few summer days on the farm.

Hacienda Spa opens today, July 1

Experience Well-being at the Hacienda Spa

In eager anticipation for today's opening, our expert team at the Hacienda Spa has been diligently reviewing and perfecting every little detail of the spa experience. We're delighted to officially open the doors, July 1, and welcome our lodging guests and local community in for botanically based massage and skin care treatments.

Home-grown, Home distilled Artisan Lavender Products

Take Lavender On the Go

With rows upon rows of organic lavender in bloom, it is a truly beautiful time here on the farm. And with travel beginning again, we're thinking about all of our artisan lavender products that are perfect to take on the go this summer. 

Announcing the Hacienda Spa

Hacienda Spa at Los Poblanos

We are thrilled to announce the opening of our Hacienda Spa on July 1. Inspired by a tile design by John Gaw Meem that reads Dedicada a La Vida Generosa, we are overjoyed to further enrich our unique brand of well-being, the "Generous Life." Surrounded by astonishing natural beauty, our guests have craved spa experiences on our property for years. The Hacienda Spa offers a new way for visitors and locals alike to relax and connect with well-being at Los Poblanos.

Farm Journal: Lavender Season

Anticipating Lavender Season on the Farm

We love all the seasons on the farm, each perfectly flowing into the next with its own lovely distinctions. But summer really sings here at Los Poblanos, and our organic Grosso lavender is one of the high notes.

Join our Summer Wellness Retreat

July 11 - 14, 2021

Lavender season is just around the corner, and we are so delighted to usher in our favorite time of year with our upcoming Summer Wellness Retreat. Indulge with three nights on the farm and exclusive small group sessions designed to embrace well-being, all while being immersed in the world of Los Poblanos during peak lavender season. From skincare workshops and culinary demonstrations to wellness classes and a fully organic five-course dinner, this retreat is the ultimate way to experience well-being the Los Poblanos way. Join us, breathe deep and escape it all on our 25-acre farm.