Parras

Parras, officially Parras de la Fuente, is a municipality and town in the eastern part of the Mexican state of Coahuila. It lies in a valley near the Sierra Madre Oriental and is part of Coahuila’s wine-producing region, often associated with the Ruta del Vino. The name derives from parras, the Spanish word for grapevines, with de la Fuente referring to a local fountain that helped define the settlement.

The area has a long colonial-era history centered on viticulture and agriculture. The climate is semi-arid, with hot summers and cooler nights, conditions that are favorable for grape growing. The economy is dominated by wine production and related agricultural activity, along with tourism tied to wine tours, vineyard visits, and the town’s historical architecture.

Parras is home to several notable wineries, including Casa Madero, widely regarded as Mexico’s oldest winery, established in the late 16th century. The wine industry and accompanying hospitality infrastructure attract visitors seeking tastings, tours, and an overview of regional viticulture. The town’s historic center features traditional Mexican colonial buildings around the central plaza, and the area hosts cultural events such as a grape harvest festival each year.

Notable people associated with Parras include Francisco I. Madero, a key figure in the Mexican Revolution and a former president of Mexico, who was born in Parras de la Fuente. The municipality thus combines historical heritage with a long-standing wine tradition.