Tour of 3 Wineries in Maipú with Lunch + Olive Groves

If you’re heading to Mendoza and want a taste of its renowned wine country without getting lost in the crowd, this full-day tour offers a balanced, authentic experience. For $120 per person, you’ll visit three traditional wineries in Maipú—each with its own character—and enjoy a gourmet lunch paired with local wines, plus a visit to olive groves for good measure. The tour lasts about 7 hours, with convenient pickup from central Mendoza hotels, making it a hassle-free way to explore.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines classic wine tastings with the chance to learn about traditional production methods—ideal if you’re curious about the craft behind Mendoza’s world-famous wines. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch at Esencia 1870 adds a gourmet touch that makes it feel like a special treat rather than just a tasting tour.

One consideration to keep in mind is that some reviews mention vehicle size can be small for larger groups, and bathroom accessibility at some wineries might be limited. If you’re comfortable with a slightly intimate vehicle and enjoy walking a bit at winery sites, these are minor trade-offs.

This tour appeals especially to those who appreciate authentic winery visits over commercialized experiences, and who want a well-rounded day that includes tastings, local foods, and scenic drives. If you’re eager to learn about Argentinian wine traditions and enjoy a comfortable, all-inclusive day with knowledgeable guides, this tour fits the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic visits to three traditional Mendoza wineries
Includes a gourmet lunch with wine pairings at Esencia 1870
Visit to olive groves adds a unique local flavor
All-inclusive experience with transfers from Mendoza city
Informative guides enhance understanding of wine production
Small group or vehicle size may affect comfort for some

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A Detailed Look at the Mendoza Winery Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed to make the most of your day without feeling rushed. It begins with pickup from your hotel or selected central locations in Mendoza, with the driver collecting you in a comfortable van. The drive to Maipú takes around 30 to 45 minutes, giving you your first glimpse of the lush vineyards spreading across Mendoza’s landscape.

Once you arrive in Maipú, your first winery visit typically lasts about an hour, where you’ll be guided through traditional production methods—a great way to see how classic Argentinian wines are made. Several wineries are visited: possible options include Corbel, Viña El Cerno, Don Arturo, or Vistandes. If some of these can’t be confirmed, similar excellent wineries will step in.

You’ll spend about an hour at each winery, tasting a selection of artisanal wines. According to reviews, the guides do a good job explaining the wine styles and production techniques, which enhances the tasting. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide explained the different varietals,” highlighting the educational aspect of the experience.

The Olive Groves Visit and Unique Stops

Adding to the wine-focused day is a stop at olive groves, which gives visitors a chance to see olive production—another pillar of Mendoza’s local industries. While the specifics of the olive visit aren’t elaborated, it offers a nice contrast to the wine tastings and deepens your understanding of local agriculture.

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The Lunch Experience

The highlight for many is the lunch at Esencia 1870. This gourmet meal is thoughtfully paired with different wines, making it both a culinary and educational experience. One reviewer noted, “The food was excellent, and the wine pairings really elevated the meal,” emphasizing the quality of the food and the thoughtful pairing.

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Afternoon Tastings and Scenic Drives

After lunch, the tour continues with one or two more guided winery visits, each offering tastings of the region’s best varietals. The last stop often includes a tasting of Mendoza’s iconic Malbecs, along with a chance to sample local alfajores, a sweet treat from the region.

The return trip involves a longer drive back to Mendoza, approximately 75 minutes, giving you time to reflect on your day and enjoy the scenic landscape.

Authentic Experiences and Guide Quality

Reviews consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and their friendly, professional demeanor. One reviewer said, “Our driver was friendly and professional,” which made the entire day comfortable and informative. The guides’ expertise enhances the experience, especially when explaining wine production and regional differences.

Vehicle Comfort and Group Size

A small note from a reviewer highlights that vehicle size can be tight—”for 4 people, the car was very small.” If you prefer more spacious seating, this is something to consider, especially during longer drives. However, the convenience of door-to-door service and the small group atmosphere often outweigh this inconvenience.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Some comments pointed out that bathroom access at certain wineries could be limited, requiring some walking. If you’re mindful of accessibility or have limited mobility, it’s worth planning accordingly.

Value and Who Will Benefit Most

At $120, this tour offers solid value when considering the multiple winery visits, tastings, and lunch included. The all-inclusive nature simplifies planning, and the small-group feel allows for personalized attention.

If you’re interested in learning about wine production, enjoy local culinary experiences, and want a relaxed, guided day without the hassle of organizing transport or meals, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, traditional wineries over commercialized tourist spots.

The Sum Up

This 7-hour winery tour in Maipú manages to combine education, relaxation, and delicious food and drink in one well-organized package. It suits those who value authentic local experiences and want to gain a deeper understanding of Mendoza’s viticulture. With knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and visits to three classic wineries, you’ll walk away with more than just bottles—an appreciation of Mendoza’s rich wine culture.

While vehicle size and bathroom access might be minor inconveniences, they are easily outweighed by the overall quality and authenticity of the tour. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Mendoza’s wine heritage, especially if you’re eager to combine tastings with scenic drives and regional cuisine.

This tour offers great value, authenticity, and professional guidance, making it an ideal choice for wine lovers and foodies alike.

FAQ

What wineries are visited during this tour?
The specific wineries can vary but often include Corbel, Viña El Cerno, Don Arturo, or Vistandes. All are traditional Mendoza wineries known for their quality and history.

How long is the drive between Mendoza and the wineries?
The drive typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the wineries, with additional driving between stops.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a gourmet lunch with wine pairings is included at Esencia 1870, offering a high-quality regional meal.

Can I customize the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but if some wineries cannot be confirmed, they will be replaced with others of similar quality. You might request specific interests beforehand.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing works well. Some winery tours involve walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are the tastings in English?
Yes, the tour guides and tastings can be in English or Spanish, depending on your preference.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The lunch is a gourmet meal, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s good to mention this when booking.

What about group size?
The vehicle size might be small for some groups, especially for four or more people, which could affect comfort during the drive.

Is transportation provided from and to my hotel?
Yes, pickups are included from selected central Mendoza hotels and other specified locations. If your accommodation isn’t listed, you can send your address for coordination.

This tour strikes a lovely balance between guided education and relaxed enjoyment, perfect for those who want to experience Mendoza’s wine culture firsthand with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.