Mendoza: Tour with tasting and lunch High Altitude Wineries

Mendoza: Tour with tasting and lunch High Altitude Wineries
Location: Mendoza Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
Rating: 4.6
Price: $364 per person
Supplier: Mil Viajes
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A Practical Day Among Mendoza’s Highest Vineyards
If you’re looking for a full-day experience that combines Argentina’s celebrated wines with spectacular scenery, this tour offers a compelling package. Priced at $364 per person, it lasts about 8 hours, taking you from the vibrant city of Mendoza southward into the Uco Valley, an area famed for its high altitude vineyards—some of the highest in the world. The trip includes guided visits to two exceptional wineries, Zuccardi’s Piedra Infinita and Alfa Crux, with tastings and a gourmet lunch, all with the comfort of private transport and a knowledgeable guide.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances educational winery tours with stunning landscapes and delicious food. The architecture of Alfa Crux, often described as resembling a spaceship, adds an element of modern design that’s fun to explore, while Zuccardi’s Piedra Infinita offers a more traditional yet architecturally acclaimed setting, complemented by award-winning wines. Another highlight: the high elevation of the vineyards, which is not only a point of pride but contributes to unique grape qualities.

A potential consideration? The early start—departure from Mendoza at 9:15 am—means a full day, so it might not be ideal for those with limited energy or mobility. Also, the 8-hour duration includes quite a bit of transit, but the scenic drive along Route 40 is part of the experience, so it’s a trade-off worth making if you love landscapes and wine.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate quality wineries, good architecture, and delicious food, especially those who want a guided experience that simplifies logistics and maximizes sightseeing and tasting.

Key Points

• High-altitude vineyards provide unique grape characteristics and scenic views.
• Guided tours at Zuccardi and Alfa Crux offer insight into wine production and architecture.
• Gourmet lunch with a six-course menu at Alfa Crux showcases local gastronomy.
• Private transfer ensures comfort and convenience throughout the day.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Suitable for those over 18, with wheelchair accessibility, and interested in a comprehensive Mendoza wine experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of Mendoza’s High-Altitude Vineyards

When we first considered this tour, what caught our eye was the promise of visiting the highest vineyards in the world—a claim that instantly sparks curiosity among wine lovers and landscape enthusiasts alike. The Uco Valley is renowned for its stunning scenery and exceptional wines, and this tour offers a well-structured way to experience both without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

The Scenic Journey from Mendoza to the Uco Valley

The adventure begins with a comfortable private transfer leaving Mendoza at 9:15 am. As you leave the city behind, the landscape quickly transforms into rugged mountains, winding roads, and expansive vineyards. The drive along route 40 is not just a way to get from A to B but a scenic highlight, offering sweeping views of the Andes and the lush rows of grapevines that thrive at altitude.

The approximately 1 hour 45-minute ride allows for a bit of anticipation as you watch the scenery shift and start to realize why this area is considered such a special terroir for wine.

First Stop: Piedra Infinita Zuccardi Winery

Arriving at Zuccardi’s Piedra Infinita, you step into a place that balances modern architecture with the warmth of traditional winemaking. The architecture here is a standout—an award-winning design that complements the natural landscape. As we learned from our guide, this winery’s design was carefully crafted to evoke a sense of infinity, echoing the grandeur of the surrounding mountains.

The guided tour, lasting about 1.5 hours, covers the wine production process, the winery’s history, and sustainable practices—if you’re into how wine is made, this is a treat. The highlight is the tasting of three different grape varieties—each showcasing how altitude and climate influence flavor. Guests have raved about the quality of Zuccardi’s wines, with one saying, “Their wines are just outstanding, and the setting makes the tasting extra memorable.”

Second Stop: Alfa Crux Winery and Lunch

After the first tasting, we hop into the vehicle for the roughly 20-minute drive to Alfa Crux. Here, the architectural highlight is the spaceship-like structure, which is as fun to look at as it is to explore. The lunch experience is a real highlight—a six-course harmonized menu that pairs beautifully with the wines. The menu is thoughtfully curated to showcase local ingredients and culinary traditions, making it more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Mendoza’s gastronomy.

Guests have noted that the lunch lasts around 3 hours, giving ample time to relax, enjoy the company of fellow travelers, and savor each dish and wine pairing. The guide might mention that Alfa Crux is known for its distinctive architecture and innovative approach to winemaking, which adds an extra layer of interest.

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Return Journey and Final Impressions

After a leisurely lunch, we begin the journey back to Mendoza around 4 pm, aiming to arrive by approximately 5:30 pm. The drive back offers another opportunity to soak in the beautiful scenery and reflect on the day’s highlights.

From various reviews, travelers appreciate the well-organized schedule and the chance to see two very different wineries—one traditional but architecturally acclaimed, the other modern and innovative—all in one day.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

This experience is particularly strong for wine enthusiasts wanting to learn about high-altitude viticulture and see some of the most interesting architecture in Mendoza’s wine scene. The guided nature of the tour means you get a lot of context without having to do any planning, and the private transport adds comfort and flexibility.

The lunch at Alfa Crux is often praised as a highlight—not just for the food, but for the setting and wine pairings. The scenery along the drive and at each winery is another reason many travelers find this tour worthwhile.

On the other hand, it is a full-day commitment—so if you’re not keen on a long trip or prefer a more casual half-day activity, you might want to consider other options. Also, since the tour is not suitable for children under 18, families with young kids will need to look elsewhere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a wine lover interested in high-altitude varieties and architecture, this tour offers a nicely curated experience. It’s ideal for those seeking a balanced combination of tasting, learning, and scenery. Nature and design buffs will especially enjoy the modern structures, while foodies will appreciate the gourmet lunch.

Travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience without worrying about transportation or logistics will find this tour very convenient. It’s especially suited to those who are okay with a full day out and want to maximize their time in Mendoza with a focus on high-quality wines and spectacular landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This Mendoza high-altitude winery tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines beautiful scenery, innovative architecture, and exceptional wines. The visit to Zuccardi’s Piedra Infinita lets you understand why Mendoza is such a renowned wine region, while Alfa Crux provides a chance to enjoy a gourmet meal in an architecturally striking setting.

The tour’s value for the price lies in the quality of the wineries visited, the delicious lunch, and the professional guidance throughout. It’s a great choice for travelers eager to delve deeper into Argentina’s wine culture while enjoying the spectacular landscapes that make Mendoza so special.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just someone who appreciates a good view and a good glass, this tour checks many boxes for an engaging, memorable day in Mendoza.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, winery visits, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation with a professional driver, guided tours at both wineries, tastings, and a gourmet lunch at Alfa Crux.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 years old.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the wineries wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to confirm specific needs when booking.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring accessible explanations for most travelers.

This experience offers a nicely paced, engaging way to explore Mendoza’s high-altitude wineries, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s unique wines—and some stunning photos to prove it.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby