Updated Feb 2026

Before we talk about which wineries to visit in Mendoza, there’s something important we’ve learned after years of designing wine-focused trips — and returning to the Mendoza wine region again and again:

The best wineries in Mendoza aren’t the same for everyone.

And that’s exactly why so many travelers feel overwhelmed when they start planning wine tasting in Mendoza.

Some visitors arrive thinking they need to see every famous winery.
Others worry they’ll miss something if they don’t follow a “top 10” list.
Many assume Mendoza will feel similar to Napa or Bordeaux — until they arrive and realize it’s something entirely different.

Mendoza isn’t just about wine.
It’s about pace, place, and perspective.

Days here unfold slowly.
Lunch at a winery often lasts longer than expected.
Views of the Andes turn a simple tasting into a moment you sit with — not rush past.

We’ve seen it happen again and again: travelers come for the wine, and leave talking about how balanced the days felt, how present they were, how they didn’t feel pulled from one place to the next.

That’s why this guide to Mendoza wineries isn’t a checklist.

It’s designed to help you understand how to choose wineries in Mendoza based on your travel style, not just their reputation.

Some travelers love iconic wineries with striking architecture and structured tastings.
Others prefer boutique, family-run vineyards where the tasting feels like a conversation and the wines tell a quieter story — often focused on Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Bonarda, or high-altitude blends from the Uco Valley.

Most people fall somewhere in between.

And that’s where thoughtful planning makes all the difference.

Before deciding on specific wineries, it helps to step back and ask a more useful question:

How do you want your days in Mendoza to feel?

Relaxed or immersive?
Food-focused or vineyard-driven?
One standout winery lunch — or a slower rhythm over several days?
Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo, or a combination of both?

This guide will walk you through:

• How to choose Mendoza wineries based on your travel style
• The best vineyards by region (Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo & more)
• Winery lunch spots we genuinely recommend
• Boutique wine lodges you will love
• 1, 2 & 3-day Mendoza wineries itinerary ideas

So you can plan your time in Mendoza with confidence — and enjoy the wine without rushing the experience.

Whether you’re visiting Mendoza for the first time or refining a wine-focused journey, this guide is designed to help you plan with confidence.

Let’s dive in.

How to Choose Mendoza Wineries Based on Your Travel Style

If there’s one thing we’ve learned after designing many wine-focused trips to Mendoza — and visiting again recently — it’s this:
the best wineries in Mendoza aren’t the same for everyone.

Some travelers are drawn to bold architecture, sweeping vineyard views, and well-known names. Others are happiest at small, family-run wineries, where the tasting feels more like sitting down with a winemaker than following a scripted presentation. Most people fall somewhere in between — and that’s where thoughtful planning really makes the difference.

Before choosing specific wineries, it helps to step back and think about how you want your days to feel, not just which bottles you want to taste.

Iconic Wineries vs. Boutique Wineries (and Why the Balance Matters)

Mendoza has no shortage of impressive wineries, but they don’t all offer the same kind of experience.

Iconic wineries tend to be larger estates with striking architecture, structured tastings, and a clear visitor flow. They’re great if you enjoy:

• learning about Mendoza’s wine history in a more formal setting
• tasting a wide range of wines in a short time
• experiencing the region’s most recognizable labels

These wineries often showcase classic Malbec, alongside polished Cabernet Sauvignon and blends that reflect Mendoza’s global reputation.

Boutique wineries, on the other hand, usually focus on smaller production and a more personal approach. Tastings are often hosted by someone directly involved in the winemaking process, and conversations tend to go deeper — about vineyards, harvest decisions, and why certain wines are made the way they are.

At these wineries, you’re more likely to explore:

• single-vineyard Malbecs
• expressive Cabernet Franc
• lesser-known varietals like Bonarda or Criolla
• high-altitude whites such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

👉 For most travelers, we recommend balancing one iconic winery with one or two boutique visits, rather than trying to fit too many stops into one day.

Choosing Wineries by Region: Uco Valley vs. Luján de Cuyo

Your experience in Mendoza changes dramatically depending on where you spend your time.

Uco Valley
If you love open landscapes, dramatic Andean views, and a quieter, more contemporary wine scene, Uco Valley is often the right fit. Wineries here are more spread out, which naturally slows the pace of the day. Tastings tend to focus on terroir, altitude, and vineyard expression, with a strong emphasis on:

• high-altitude Malbec
• elegant Cabernet Franc
• mineral-driven Chardonnays

Uco Valley is ideal if you enjoy lingering over tastings and planning a long winery lunch with views of the mountains.

Luján de Cuyo
Closer to Mendoza city, Luján de Cuyo is where many of the region’s historic wineries are located. The style here often leans toward:

• classic, structured Malbec
• richer reds with a longer aging tradition

Because distances are shorter, Luján works well if you’re short on time or prefer a more compact day with less driving.

👉 One of the most common mistakes we see is trying to visit Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo in the same day. It usually results in rushed tastings and too much time in the car.

How Many Wineries Should You Visit in a Day?

When it comes to wine tasting, less really is more.

From experience, the sweet spot is:

• two wineries per day, or
• one winery combined with a long lunch experience

This gives you time to enjoy the wines, ask questions, and actually remember what you tasted — instead of watching the clock or feeling overwhelmed.

Wine Styles Matter More Than Wine Lists

Many travelers arrive focused on tasting Malbec — and rightly so — but some of the most memorable experiences come from discovering styles they weren’t expecting.

If you enjoy:

• structured, powerful reds, you’ll likely appreciate classic Luján de Cuyo wineries
• fresher, more elegant wines, Uco Valley’s high-altitude vineyards are worth prioritizing
• variety and experimentation, boutique wineries often offer the most interesting tastings

Thinking about wine style ahead of time helps narrow down choices and avoid winery fatigue.

Planning for Pace, Not Just Preferences

The biggest difference between a good Mendoza wine day and a great one usually comes down to pacing.

When wineries, distances, lunch reservations, and lodging are aligned, the experience feels relaxed and effortless. When they’re not, even excellent wineries can feel stressful.

That’s why we always think about Mendoza wineries as part of an itinerary, not as a checklist.

Timing, Seasons, and pacing

Mendoza is a year-round destination, but the experience changes depending on when you go:

• Harvest season (March–April) is lively and energetic, but wineries book up fast.
• Spring and fall are ideal for travelers who value mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Summer can be hot, which makes lunch planning and pacing especially important.

No matter the season, planning the order of visits — and how long you stay at each winery — makes a noticeable difference in how the day feels.

A quick note on varietals (without getting technical)

Yes, Malbec is the star — especially in both Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo. But many travelers are pleasantly surprised by Mendoza’s Cabernet Franc, Bonarda, and high-altitude whites.

If you enjoy discovering new styles, this is another reason why smaller wineries can be especially rewarding.

Wine Styles Matter More Than Wine Lists

Many travelers arrive focused on tasting Malbec — and rightly so — but some of the most memorable experiences come from discovering styles they weren’t expecting.

If you enjoy:

• structured, powerful reds, you’ll likely appreciate classic Luján de Cuyo wineries
• fresher, more elegant wines, Uco Valley’s high-altitude vineyards are worth prioritizing
• variety and experimentation, boutique wineries often offer the most interesting tastings

Thinking about wine style ahead of time helps narrow down choices and avoid winery fatigue.

Mendoza Wine Regions Explained: Uco Valley, Luján de Cuyo & Beyond

One of the questions we hear most often is:
“Should I stay in Uco Valley or Luján de Cuyo?”

The short answer?
It depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for — and how you want your days to flow.

Mendoza’s wine regions aren’t interchangeable. Each one offers a different rhythm, landscape, and wine style, and understanding those differences makes planning much easier (and far more enjoyable).

Uco Valley: Mountain Views, Space, and a Slower Wine Experience

If you’re picturing wide vineyards framed by the Andes, calm tastings, and long lunches with a view, you’re probably thinking of Uco Valley — even if you don’t know it yet.

Uco Valley sits at higher elevation and feels more open and spacious than other parts of Mendoza. Wineries here tend to focus on terroir, altitude, and vineyard expression, which translates into wines that are often fresher, more elegant, and very expressive.

This is where you’ll find some of Mendoza’s most refined Malbecs, along with outstanding Cabernet Franc and mineral-driven Chardonnays. Because wineries are spread out, days here naturally slow down — which is exactly why we love planning fewer visits with more time at each one.

Uco Valley works especially well if you enjoy lingering tastings, value scenery as much as wine, and don’t want to feel rushed from one stop to the next.

Luján de Cuyo: Classic Malbecs and Easier Logistics

Luján de Cuyo is often considered the historic heart of Mendoza’s wine region, and it shows in both the style of the wines and the overall feel of the area.

Here you’ll find many long-established wineries known for classic, structured Malbecs — richer, deeper, and often more powerful in style. Because Luján is closer to Mendoza city, logistics are simpler and driving times between wineries are shorter.

This region is a great choice if you’re short on time, staying in the city, or prefer days that feel a bit more compact while still offering excellent wine experiences.

For first-time visitors, Luján de Cuyo can be a very comfortable introduction to Mendoza wineries.

Can You Visit Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo on the Same Day?

Technically, yes — but we usually don’t recommend it.

Trying to combine Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo in one day almost always means spending too much time in the car and not enough time actually enjoying the wineries. Tastings feel rushed, lunches get squeezed in, and the day loses its rhythm.

If you have more than one day in Mendoza, it’s far more enjoyable to dedicate one full day to each region. That way, each day has a clear focus and a much more relaxed pace.

What About Maipú and Other Mendoza Wine Areas?

Maipú is located very close to Mendoza city and is known for more traditional wineries and easy access. While it can be interesting, we usually include it only when travelers are limited on time or have a specific winery they’re excited to visit.

For most food- and wine-focused trips, Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo offer a better balance of quality, atmosphere, and overall experience. That’s why they tend to be the backbone of the itineraries we design.

Choosing the Right Region Isn’t About “Better” — It’s About Fit

There’s no single “best” wine region in Mendoza — only the one that fits your travel style, schedule, and preferences.

Some travelers fall in love with Uco Valley’s landscapes and slower pace. Others appreciate the convenience and classic feel of Luján de Cuyo. Many enjoy experiencing both, as long as the itinerary allows for it.

When the right region is chosen from the start, everything else — wineries, lunches, lodging, and timing — tends to fall into place much more naturally.

Best Wineries in Mendoza (By Region & Experience)

One of the biggest mistakes we see travelers make is trying to visit too many wineries, often based on generic “top lists” that don’t explain why a winery is worth visiting or what kind of experience it actually offers.

Instead of thinking in terms of “the best wineries,” we find it far more helpful to choose wineries based on the kind of experience you’re looking for — and then match that with the right region.

Below, we’ve organized our recommendations by region and by experience, focusing on wineries we genuinely enjoy planning into itineraries for food- and wine-focused travelers.

Uco Valley Wineries: Terroir, Views & Refined Tastings

Uco Valley is where Mendoza’s contemporary wine scene really comes into focus. High-altitude vineyards, dramatic Andean backdrops, and a strong emphasis on terroir shape both the wines and the overall experience.

This is a great region if you enjoy elegant, expressive wines and unhurried tastings. Many wineries here focus on high-altitude Malbec, refined Cabernet Franc, and mineral-driven Chardonnays, often presented in settings designed to slow you down and let you enjoy the moment.

Wineries like Zuccardi Valle de Uco, SuperUco, and Alfa Crux work well here, especially if you’re planning a longer tasting or pairing the visit with a winery lunch.

Luján de Cuyo Wineries: Classic Malbecs & Historic Estates

Luján de Cuyo is often considered the historic heart of Mendoza’s wine region, and it’s where many travelers connect most clearly with the classic style of Argentine Malbec.

Wines here tend to be richer and more structured, and many wineries have long family histories. Because this region is closer to Mendoza city, driving times are shorter and it’s easier to combine visits without the day feeling rushed.

Achával Ferrer, Bodega Vistalba, and Durigutti Family Winemakers are solid examples of wineries that balance tradition with a thoughtful visitor experience.

READ MORE: Colome Winery & Estancia — a Hidden Gem in a Hidden Gem Destination

Best Winery Lunches in Mendoza

When it comes to winery lunches in Mendoza, this is where planning really matters.

A winery lunch isn’t something you squeeze between tastings. It’s usually the highlight of the day — the moment when everything slows down, the setting sinks in, and the wines start to make more sense.

That’s why we almost always plan winery lunches as the anchor of the day, not as an add-on.

Zuccardi Piedra Infinita Cocina (Uco Valley)

If you’re choosing just one winery lunch in Mendoza, this is often the one we recommend.

The focus here is on seasonal ingredients, thoughtful pairings, and letting the wines shine without overcomplicating things. The setting, right in the middle of the vineyards with the Andes in the background, makes it easy to linger longer than planned.

This lunch works best if you’re spending the day in Uco Valley and want a relaxed, immersive experience. Because it’s a long lunch, we usually pair it with just one tasting — either before or after.

Reservations are essential, especially during harvest season.

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Casa Vigil (Luján de Cuyo)

Casa Vigil feels lively, warm, and very Mendoza. It’s a great option if you enjoy a more animated atmosphere and want to experience a winery lunch that blends wine, food, and personality.

The menu is generous and playful, and the wines are bold and expressive. This is a good choice if you’re staying in Mendoza city and want a lunch that still feels special without a long drive.

Because the experience can run long, we usually recommend planning little else that day beyond this lunch.

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Bodega Lagarde – Fogón (Luján de Cuyo)

If you prefer something quieter and more refined, Lagarde’s Fogón is a lovely alternative.

The focus here is on open-fire cooking, local ingredients, and a calmer pace. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy thoughtful food, a relaxed setting, and wines that complement rather than dominate the meal.

This lunch works well as the centerpiece of a shorter day, especially if you’re pairing it with a morning tasting nearby.

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A final note on planning winery lunches

When lunches are planned well, they elevate the entire wine experience instead of interrupting it.

Winery lunches book up quickly, and timing is everything. Reservations are essential, especially during harvest season and weekends.

A few things to keep in mind when planning a winery lunch in Mendoza:

• choosing the lunch first, then building the rest of the day around it (Most winery lunches start between 12:30 and 1:30 pm)
• allowing enough time to enjoy the experience without watching the clock. A lunch experience usually lasts two to three hours, which means it should be the main focus of the day.
• avoiding more than one major tasting on a lunch day

In the sections below, we’ll share winery lunches we genuinely enjoy and often include in itineraries, along with tips on how to fit them into your day without feeling rushed.

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👉If this is your first trip to Argentina, we recommend reading our Argentina travel tips guide to understand distances, timing, and how travel really works on the ground.

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Mendoza Wineries Itinerary Ideas (1, 2 & 3 Days)

This is where everything comes together.

Once you understand Mendoza’s wine regions, winery styles, and the importance of pacing, planning your days becomes much easier — and far more enjoyable.

Below are sample itinerary ideas we often use as a starting point when designing wine-focused trips. Think of them as frameworks, not rigid plans. Every traveler is different, and these can always be adjusted based on interests, energy levels, and travel season.

1-Day Mendoza Wineries Itinerary

2-Day Mendoza Wineries Itinerary

With two days, you can experience both sides of Mendoza’s wine story — without overdoing it. A well-balanced two-day itinerary usually looks like this:

This approach allows each region to shine on its own terms and gives your palate (and energy levels) a natural reset between days. Two days is often the sweet spot for travelers who want depth without feeling like the trip revolves entirely around wine.

3-Day Mendoza Wineries Itinerary

Three days in Mendoza gives you the most flexibility and the most relaxed pace. A typical three-day structure might include:

This is also where experiences beyond wine can fit in naturally, without taking away from the overall focus of the trip. The best itineraries aren’t about fitting everything in — they’re about choosing the right experiences and giving them the time they deserve.

When is the Best Time to Visit Mendoza Wineries

The best time to visit Mendoza wineries is March to April, during harvest season, when vineyards are active and the Andes provide a dramatic backdrop.
That said, October to November and April to May are often ideal for travelers who prefer fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and a more relaxed pace. Winter (June–August) can also be a great option for wine-focused trips, with quieter wineries, cozy tastings, and snow-capped mountain views.
Each season offers a different experience, so the best time ultimately depends on how you want your days in Mendoza to feel.

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👉 If Mendoza is part of a larger wine-focused journey, you may also enjoy our guide on the best time to visit South America’s wine regions, where we compare harvest seasons, weather, and pacing across Argentina, Chile, and beyond.

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Where to Stay: Our Favorite Wine Lodges in Mendoza

When travelers ask us where to stay in Mendoza, our answer is almost always the same:
if you can, stay at a wine lodge.

Not because city hotels aren’t nice — but because wine lodges completely change how Mendoza feels. They turn a wine trip into an immersive experience, where the landscape, the pace, and the wineries all flow together naturally.

This is where we usually place our travelers, especially when wine is a central part of the journey.

Why We Usually Recommend Staying at a Wine Lodge

These are wine lodges we know personally and return to again and again when designing trips for our travelers.

What they have in common isn’t just a beautiful setting — it’s the feeling of being recognized. The kind of places where people know your name, remember how you take your coffee in the morning, and ask how your winery visit went the day before.

At these lodges, food is never an afterthought. Meals are shaped by what’s in season, often sourced from nearby farms or the lodge’s own garden, and meant to be enjoyed slowly — usually with a glass of local wine and a view that invites you to linger a little longer.

The settings matter, too. Vineyards stretching toward the Andes, quiet mornings, long afternoons, and evenings that feel unhurried. These are places designed for travelers who value connection over formality, and experience over excess.

This is how we think about accommodation in Mendoza: not as a hotel choice, but as part of the story of the journey.

Take a look at my Top Luxury hotels in Mendoza Wine Route of Argentina:

The Vines Resort & Spa – Uco Valley

The Vines is one of those places where the landscape immediately slows you down.

Set right in the heart of Uco Valley, with vineyards stretching toward the Andes, this is a lodge where mornings feel quiet and expansive, and evenings naturally revolve around the changing light over the mountains. Sunset here is something travelers mention again and again — watching the Andes turn pink and gold with a glass of wine in hand.

What we love most about The Vines is the sense of space and privacy. Villas are spread throughout the vineyards, giving travelers room to settle in, rest, and feel at home. It’s the kind of place where people remember you, ask about your winery visits, and help shape the next day based on how you’re feeling — not on a fixed schedule.

Food is a central part of the experience. Dining at Siete Fuegos, Francis Mallmann’s fire-driven restaurant, is often a highlight of the stay. Meals are built around open flames, seasonal ingredients, and simple preparations that let both the food and the wines shine. Dinner here isn’t rushed — it’s meant to unfold slowly, often lingering well into the evening as the mountains fade into the dark.

We often recommend The Vines for travelers who want Mendoza to feel immersive and unhurried, and who enjoy returning “home” to a peaceful vineyard setting after a day of tastings.

Awasi Mendoza (formerly Cavas Wine Lodge) – Luján de Cuyo

Awasi Mendoza is all about privacy and personalization.

Each traveler stays in their own private villa, surrounded by vineyards, creating the feeling of having a place entirely to yourself. From the moment you arrive — often welcomed with a glass of wine — the experience feels tailored, calm, and deeply personal.

What sets Awasi apart is how seamlessly everything revolves around you. Days are shaped around your interests, whether that means visiting specific wineries, enjoying a long lunch, or simply staying close to the lodge. Guides and hosts take the time to get to know you, remember your preferences, and adjust plans naturally as the trip unfolds.

Meals are intimate and thoughtful, with menus that highlight local ingredients and regional flavors, paired carefully with Mendoza wines. Dining here feels less like a restaurant experience and more like being invited into a private wine-and-food conversation.

We often choose Awasi for travelers who value discretion, space, and a sense that every moment has been designed specifically for them.

Susana Balbo Winemaker’s House & Lodge – Luján de Cuyo

Staying at Susana Balbo’s lodge feels like stepping into the world of one of Argentina’s most respected winemaking families.

The atmosphere is warm, elegant, and personal — more like being welcomed into a private home than checking into a hotel. The connection to wine is tangible, from the stories shared at the table to the way meals and wines are thoughtfully paired.

Food plays a leading role here. Dinners often feel like an extension of the day’s winery visits, with menus inspired by local ingredients and designed to be enjoyed slowly. Conversations flow easily, wines are poured generously, and the pace is relaxed.

We recommend this lodge for travelers who enjoy a strong sense of place, appreciate wine culture beyond tastings, and want to feel connected to the people behind the bottles they’re drinking.

Entre Cielos – Luján de Cuyo

Entre Cielos is a beautiful choice for travelers who like to balance wine experiences with moments of rest.

Set among vineyards, the lodge has a softer, more contemplative feel. Days here often include a tasting or two, followed by time back at the property — a walk through the vines, a quiet afternoon, or simply slowing down before dinner.

Food is relaxed and ingredient-driven, designed to complement the wines rather than compete with them. Meals feel easy and unpretentious, encouraging long conversations at the table without any sense of formality.

We often recommend Entre Cielos to travelers who enjoy wellness, gentle pacing, and a Mendoza experience that blends wine with space to breathe.

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READ MORE: Best Mendoza Luxury Hotels to stay

If staying among vineyards is important to you, you may also enjoy our curated selection of wine country luxury hotels across South America.

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Wine Experiences in Mendoza

Wine enthusiasts like you often seek captivating experiences combined with the opportunity to taste exquisite wines. Mendoza wineries, known for its high-quality viticulture, offers memorable wine tastings.

But Mendoza wineries are not limited to simple wine tastings; they offer a blend of activities that can enrich your visit. Enjoy a guided tour through the vineyards, perhaps on horseback riding for an adventurous twist. Engage in wine pairings where foods are meticulously matched with wines to enhance the flavors in your glass. At the end of the tour, some Mendoza wineries may surprise you with a creative exhibition or a walk-through of their cellars. Moreover, the tasting room is where every detail from aroma to palate is discussed, helping you understand the nuances of each varietal.

Exclusive Experiences you can’t miss when visiting Mendoza

Do you Picture yourself soaring above the vineyards in a helicopter, or dining under the stars at a private estate, or maybe indulging in a wine and wellness retreat?

Mendoza promises to captivate and delight at every turn!🌿

✨ Helicopter Wine Tours: Elevate your wine-tasting experience to new heights with a helicopter tour of Mendoza wineries. Soar above the sweeping landscapes of the wine country and take in panoramic views of the Andes Mountains as you make your way to some of the region’s most prestigious wineries. Touch down at exclusive estates such as Catena Zapata or Bodega Ruca Malen, where you’ll enjoy private tastings of their finest wines paired with gourmet cuisine. With personalized service and breathtaking scenery at every turn, a helicopter wine tour is sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your Mendoza getaway.

✨ Private Vineyard Dinners: Immerse yourself in the romance and elegance of Mendoza’s wine country with a private vineyard dinner under the stars. Set amidst the vineyards of a boutique estate such as Bodega Norton or Bodega Vistalba, your evening begins with a guided tour of the winery followed by a tasting of their acclaimed wines. Then, retreat to a candlelit table set among the vines, where a sumptuous multi-course meal awaits. Indulge in locally sourced ingredients and expertly paired wines as you savor the flavors of Argentina in a setting that’s nothing short of magical.

✨ Wine and Wellness Retreats: Treat yourself to a luxurious wine and wellness retreat in the heart of Mendoza wineries. Stay at a boutique hotel such as Cavas Wine Lodge or Casa de Uco, where you’ll enjoy five-star accommodations and personalized service at every turn. Start your day with a sunrise yoga session overlooking the vineyards, followed by a guided tour and tasting at a nearby winery. Then, indulge in a pampering spa treatment using locally sourced ingredients such as Malbec grapes or olive oil. With its perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation, a wine and wellness retreat promises to leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the world.

Culinary Experiences in Mendoza

Food in Mendoza is inseparable from wine.

Meals are not something you squeeze in between tastings — they’re often the highlight of the day and an essential part of understanding the region. From open-fire cooking to ingredient-driven menus shaped by the seasons, Mendoza’s culinary scene reflects the same respect for land and rhythm that defines its wines.

Culinary experiences here are designed to be enjoyed slowly. Long lunches at wineries, dinners that stretch into the evening, and menus built around local produce create moments where food, wine, and conversation naturally come together.

Gourmet Dining and Local Delights

Your culinary adventure in Mendoza might begin with a gourmet lunch at one of the best restaurants in the region. These establishments often feature dining rooms overlooking the vineyards, providing a picturesque setting for your meal. At these venues, you can relish exquisite dishes that are skillfully paired with the winery’s best vintages. For instance, you could enjoy a sophisticated multi-course meal that showcases the essence of Mendoza’s culinary heritage at Susana Balbo Winery, directed by a head chef. Here, the use of fresh, local ingredients is paramount, and each dish is carefully crafted to match the profile of the accompanying wine.

Not to miss is the 7 Fires Experience in Valle de Uco, Mendoza, where renowned chef Francis Mallmann invites you to indulge in an unforgettable dining experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Argentina’s wine country.

At the heart of Mallmann’s culinary philosophy are the seven fires, a collection of ancient cooking techniques that pay homage to Argentina’s rich culinary heritage. From grilling over a wood-fired grill to roasting in a traditional clay oven, each fire imparts its own distinct flavor and texture to the dishes, creating a symphony of tastes and aromas that dance on the palate.

7 Fires experience is a must-visit destination for food lovers and luxury travelers alike! 🍷

Olive Oil Tasting and Production

Beyond wine, Mendoza is also celebrated for its olive oil, with groves thriving in the region’s climate. Indulge in a tasting experience where you learn about the intricate process of olive oil production. Tours typically guide you through the olive groves and delve into the pressing and bottling processes. You have the opportunity to taste a variety of oils, noting the subtle differences in flavor and aroma. Olive oil tasting in Mendoza can be as profound an experience as wine tasting, offering an insight into another facet of the region’s rich agricultural bounty. For instance, visit a winery that also specializes in olive oil making and enjoy samples straight from the press.

What If You’re Not a Wine Lover?

This is one of the most common questions we hear — especially from couples or families traveling together.

The short answer?
Mendoza works beautifully even if wine isn’t everyone’s main interest.

What makes Mendoza special is that wine is just one layer of the experience. The landscape, the food, and the pace of life invite you to enjoy the region in different ways — without feeling like you’re tagging along.

If wine isn’t your thing, or you simply want some variety, Mendoza also offers:
→ Scenic drives through the Andes foothills
→ Gentle hikes and nature walks in Uco Valley
→ Long, relaxed lunches focused on food as much as wine
→ Wellness experiences at wine lodges (spa time, quiet afternoons, vineyard walks)

When we design trips for couples or families, we often mix wine-focused days with lighter, wine-adjacent experiences so everyone feels included — and no one feels rushed or bored.

That balance is what allows Mendoza to work so well for different travel styles, all within the same journey.

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If Mendoza is part of a longer trip, see how it fits naturally into our two-week Argentina itinerary, designed for travelers who prefer depth over rushing. If you’re working with a shorter timeframe, you may also find inspiration in our 10-day Argentina itinerary ideas, which balance wine, culture, and iconic landscapes without overloading your days.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Mendoza Wineries

Reservations matter
Most wineries in Mendoza require advance reservations, especially for tastings with a guide or winery lunches. This is particularly important during harvest season (March–April) and on weekends. Planning ahead allows you to secure the experiences you actually want, rather than settling for what’s available.

Transportation makes a difference
Driving yourself between wineries isn’t recommended if you’re planning tastings. Most travelers choose a private driver or guided service so they can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics or timing. It also makes the experience feel smoother and more intentional.

How many wineries per day is ideal?
Less is more.
We usually recommend:
→ One winery lunch + one tasting, or
→ Two tastings without lunch

Trying to visit more than that often leads to wine fatigue and rushed experiences

Taking Mendoza wineries Wines Home

You’ve wandered through expansive vineyards, lingered in aromatic barrel rooms, and savored the complex flavors of Argentinian wine. It’s only natural to want to preserve the memories of this journey. Choosing wines to take home is not just about selecting bottles; it’s about capturing moments.

1. Assess your cellar needs: Reflect on whether your wine cellar at home lacks a bold Malbec or a crisp Torrontés.
2. Understand wine aging: Not all wines are meant for the long haul. Pick those that will mature gracefully over time.
3. Consider storage conditions: Ensure you have the right environment at home to keep the wines in their best condition.
4. Legal considerations: Keep in mind the quantity regulations and tax duties that apply when transporting wine internationally.

Before leaving a winery, ask if they offer shipping options. It may be more practical than carrying the bottles yourself, especially if you’ve found multiple wines that speak to you.

Remember, each bottle from a Mendoza winery is more than just wine; it’s a testament to the rich history and dedication of the wine industry that thrives here. Bringing these wines into your home allows you to share and extend the warmth of Argentinian hospitality with friends and family.

In this section, you’ll find concise answers to some of the most common questions regarding Mendoza’s wineries, helping you plan your visit effectively.

Ready to Plan Your Mendoza Wineries Trip?

Planning a Mendoza wine trip isn’t just about choosing wineries — it’s about creating the right rhythm.

When wineries, lunches, accommodations, and timing are aligned, the experience feels effortless. Days unfold naturally, meals linger, and wine becomes part of a larger story rather than a checklist.

If you’d like help turning ideas into a smooth, well-paced itinerary — one that reflects how you like to travel — we’d love to help.

📞 Start Here – Book a Planning Call

Remember that every trip we plan is designed exclusively to meet your unique preferences and wishes, even if you have only 1 WEEK and want to focus on seeing the highlights of Agentina wine regions.

Let your imagination run wild with the endless possibilities of what’s to come!⁠

We will always strive to include unique and authentic travel experiences that are “Un-Googleable”, allowing you to embark on a one-of-a-kind journey tailored to your interests and desires.⁠

Our process is simple, and It takes only 2 to 3 weeks to go through our planning process & by the end, you could already be thinking about what to pack and all the fantastic memories you will create in South America 🥳

See you Soon! ❤️

Maria ✨

Mendoza Wineries FAQ

Our Food and Wine Guide to Start planning your trip