In the town of Velarde, named after Don Juan Velarde in 1598, Rancho de Santa Fe was founded. Don Juan and his family settled in this land and started farming using the King of Spain's name, who had sent Don Juan, under the command of Don Juan de Onate, to claim the new territory. Having already conquered Mexico, King Ferdinand declared the new land "New Mexico."

Accompanied by "Franciscan" Monks, carrying the finest apple seeds from the hill country of Spain, Don Juan Velarde's family began farming in the beautiful valley, finding it perfect for growing chiles, peppers, spices, and a variety of fruits. The seeds used to start and continue the Velarde family's famous products, were generations of seeds originated from the best seed stock owned by the King of Spain. The altitude of Rancho de Santa Fe is 6,000 feet, and the careful attention given to each plant and tree also contributes to the special flavor attributed to the products of Rancho de Santa Fe. A flavor sought but unmatched anywhere in the world.

Eddie Velarde and the Velarde family are dedicated to carrying on the centuries old way of producing only the finest chiles, peppers, mixes, apples, cherries, peaches, pears, plums, and other fine foods; the FINEST available anywhere in the United States. Rancho de Santa Fe's products comes from 37 acres of the richest farmland in the world. The rich bottom land of the famous "Rio Grande" river, running south through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where the cold clear mountain water from melting snows rushes from beautiful 12,600 feet high peaks into the 400 year-old irrigation acequias (ditches), eager to quench the thirst of young budding chile, pepper, and other spice plants.

Using organic methods of controlling weeds and insects, Rancho de Santa Fe's products contains no additives, preservatives, or filters. It's easy to understand why over 75% of the products entered into competition each year wins BLUE RIBBONS. Rancho de Santa Fe continuously places First Place in almost every competition, from winning two of the five awards in the International competition for their Salsa (with over 30 countries participating), or walking away with National farming honors, or winning "hundreds" of State and County ribbons. EXCELLENCE is truly a Velarde family tradition, and their gift especially to you.

Eddie Velarde carries on the work ethics and tradition of excellence, handed down from his father and fore fathers. Honored as "OUTSTANDING YOUNG FARMER" in New Mexico for two years in a row, Eddie placed second in 1990 and in 1991 placed first in State competition. In 1992 he did better, Eddie Velarde was named one of four "OUTSTANDING YOUNG FARMERS IN AMERICA" by U.S. Jaycees and John Deere & Company. Eddie also received recognition for excellence from President George Bush, Governor Jim Edgar, State of Illinois, and Governor Bruce King, State of New Mexico. Eddie has also received many valued awards for outstanding community service.

Do your taste buds a favor and try our international award winning salsa, as well as our fine bagged chiles, assorted spices, Chile Ristras, and Chile Wreathes; the most sensitive palate will be delighted. Our wonderful gourmet New Mexican mixes and breads will be a special treat for your social gatherings. We truly hope you enjoy the pleasure of eating them as much as we have enjoyed growing them for you.

The Choice of Kings