From Mendoza: Tasting tour to Maipu with Trapiche Winery
If you’re looking to explore Argentina’s famed wine region without the fuss of a crowded tour bus, this full-day experience in Maipu offers a relaxed, authentic taste of Mendoza’s rich vinicultural roots. For $225 per person, you’ll spend roughly nine hours visiting historic wineries, tasting a variety of wines, and enjoying a farm-style lunch, all guided by knowledgeable bilingual hosts.
What we love about this tour is how it balances educational insights with delicious tastings—you’ll learn how wines are made from grapes grown in different parts of Mendoza, sometimes influenced by oceanic breezes, which adds a unique twist to the tasting experience. Plus, the inclusion of a gourmet lunch at Zuccardi gives you a real sense of the region’s farm-to-table ethos.
The only caveat? With so many wineries and stops packed into one day, there’s quite a bit of driving and walking, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full schedule and comfortable transportation. This tour is perfect for wine lovers eager to understand Mendoza’s history, or visitors who want a taste of local life beyond the city.
Key Points
- Comprehensive Experience: Visits to both Trapiche and Antigal wineries, plus a guided olive oil tasting.
- Authentic Insights: Guided tours provide background on Mendoza’s wine history and production processes.
- Gourmet Lunch: A three-course farm-style meal at Zuccardi, with vegetarian, vegan, and celiac options.
- Convenience: Roundtrip transportation and bilingual guides make the day smooth and accessible.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later.
- Ideal for: Wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those wanting a full day of Argentine culinary and enological culture.
A Closer Look at the Tour
This full-day tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive taste of Mendoza’s wine scene without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves. Starting with convenient hotel pickups from five key locations in Mendoza, your day begins with a comfortable 45-minute drive into the heart of Maipu, a region known for its historic wineries and vibrant viticultural tradition.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Winery Visits
The first stop is Trapiche, one of Argentina’s most renowned wineries, with a history dating back to the late 1800s. Here, you’ll enjoy an expert-guided tour of the facilities, which include modern production areas and historic cellars. The wine tasting that follows features some of the region’s best-known labels. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative, giving insights into how Mendoza’s terrain influences wine flavor.
Next, you’ll visit Antigal winery, which carries the charm of a more traditional, family-owned operation. Its historic roots provide a glimpse into Mendoza’s early days of winemaking, and the guided tasting offers a chance to compare different styles from this part of Argentina.
The Lunch at Zuccardi
After exploring two wineries, the group heads to Zuccardi’s Pan & Oliva, a Mediterranean-style restaurant on a working farm. The lunch is a highlight—three courses based on farm products, with olive oil playing a starring role in the dishes. The meal is full of local flavors, and the inclusion of vegetarian, vegan, and celiac menus ensures everyone’s dietary needs are covered.
We loved the way the olive oil was highlighted during the meal and the short educational session afterwards at Zuelo Olive Oil Mill. You’ll get to taste different varieties and learn about the process of producing this essential ingredient in Argentine cuisine, adding a layer of appreciation for local products.
The Vineyards and Beyond
The tour doesn’t just stop at wine. You’ll also visit vineyards with oceanic influences from other regions, providing a broader perspective on Mendoza’s climatic diversity. The guides are keen to explain how geography and climate shape the wines, making each tasting session more meaningful.
Transportation and Group Size
Transport is provided in a comfortable van, with plenty of room for the group to relax between stops. The itinerary suggests a moderate pace, with the total driving time around 2 hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The tour is designed for groups of varying sizes, but reviews indicate that the guides keep things personalized, ensuring everyone’s questions are answered.
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Details
The tour is available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible to international visitors. You can book with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours early for a full refund or reserve your spot without immediate payment, which is handy if your travel plans are still in flux.
What Travelers Say
Many reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. One traveler appreciated the “great variety of wines” and the insight into Mendoza’s history that made the experience stand out. Others mentioned the delicious lunch and how the “olive oil tasting was a delightful surprise,” adding a local touch to the day.
A few noted that the itinerary is quite full, which is true—expect a busy day, but one filled with rich experiences. The combination of wine, food, and scenery often earns praise for delivering real value for the price.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to see Mendoza’s historic wineries and taste a broad range of wines. It’s also well-suited for foodies interested in farm-fresh ingredients and regional specialties. If you enjoy learning about local culture and don’t mind a full schedule, you’ll find this tour both informative and enjoyable.
However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are less interested in wine and food, you might find the day a bit packed. The tour requires a fair amount of walking and vehicle time, so comfortable footwear and a moderate stamina are recommended.
In Summary
This Maipu tasting tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Mendoza’s winemaking heritage, combining historic wineries, expert-guided tastings, and a farm-fresh lunch. The inclusion of olive oil tasting and visits to vineyards influenced by oceanic climates provides a broader context of regional diversity. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach make the experience engaging and authentic.
At $225, it offers good value for a full-day, guided experience with transportation, meals, and tastings included. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or a curious traveler wanting to understand Argentine wine culture, this tour delivers a lot in one carefully curated package.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from select hotels in Mendoza is included, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting with pickup and ending with drop-off at your hotel.
Are vegetarian, vegan, or celiac meals available?
Yes, the lunch at Zuccardi’s is flexible for dietary restrictions, with vegetarian, vegan, and celiac options.
What wineries are visited?
You’ll visit both Trapiche and Antigal, with guided tours and tastings at each.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine tastings, the experience of visiting wineries and the farm-to-table lunch can be enjoyable for others, but wine tastings are only for those 18 and older.
What is the emphasis of this tour?
The focus is on history, regional diversity, and local products, making it both educational and flavorful.
How many wineries are visited?
Three stops in total—two wineries and a farm with olive oil production.
Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, the guides are fluent in both English and Spanish.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, with sunscreen and sunglasses for outdoor vineyard visits.
To sum it up, if you’re after an experience that combines history, flavor, and scenery, this Maipu wine tour from Mendoza offers a solid and enjoyable way to deepen your understanding of Argentina’s vinicultural soul. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided insights, local cuisine, and a taste of Mendoza’s pioneering spirit—all in one satisfying day.
You can check availability for your dates here: