Wine, Food, and Comfort: A Private Mendoza Experience at Los Toneles and Azafrán

If you’re looking for a well-rounded taste of Mendoza’s renowned wine scene combined with exceptional Argentine cuisine, this tour offers a compelling package. For $250 per person, you get a 5-hour private journey that takes you from your hotel to two of Mendoza’s highlights: the historic Los Toneles Winery and the celebrated Azafrán Restaurant. A private driver handles the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the experience — no fussing over directions or schedules.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines wine tasting with a taste of Mendoza’s culinary innovation. The visit to Los Toneles offers an intimate look at traditional winemaking, paired with carefully selected Mosquita Muerta Wines. Later, the dinner at Azafrán, awarded a Michelin Star for 2024, promises a gourmet meal crafted from local, seasonal ingredients that reflect Argentina’s vibrant food scene.

One possible consideration is the duration—about five hours—which makes it ideal for those with limited time but still seeking a meaningful experience. Also, since this is a private tour, it offers a personalized feel that can be tailored to your pace and interests, making it perfect for travelers who appreciate comfort and exclusivity.

This experience is especially suited for wine lovers, foodies, and luxury travelers who prefer a curated, intimate day out. If you’re keen on avoiding large groups and want to savor Mendoza’s finest wines and cuisine without rushing, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

Personalized experience with private transportation and exclusive visits
Visit to Los Toneles Winery for a deep dive into local winemaking and tastings
Gourmet dinner at Azafrán, a Michelin-starred restaurant, with a creative three-course menu
Flexible schedule, with pickup from your accommodation included
Value for money, combining wine, food, and comfort in one package
Ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a relaxed, upscale Mendoza day

Exploring the Details: What Makes This Tour Special

When planning a trip to Mendoza, making sure you sample both the region’s world-famous wines and its vibrant culinary scene can be a challenge. This private tour neatly packages both elements into one smooth experience, with the added bonus of luxurious transportation.

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Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a private chauffeur picking you up directly from your hotel, which means there’s no stress about finding meeting points or dealing with large groups. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort regardless of Mendoza’s warm climate. Because the tour is private, your party’s pace is prioritized—whether you want to linger longer at the winery or spend a bit more time savoring your dinner.

Los Toneles Winery Experience

The visit to Bodega Los Toneles offers a taste of traditional Mendoza winemaking. Here, you’ll have the chance to walk through the winery’s historic corners, learning about their process and history. The tasting features some of their great wines, providing a genuine insight into local craftsmanship. The two-hour visit includes admission tickets, so no hidden costs, and the tasting itself is a highlight, especially if you’re passionate about wine.

Azafrán Restaurant: A Culinary Highlight

Later, your driver takes you to Azafrán, just 30 minutes away in Mendoza’s city center. This restaurant is no ordinary dining spot — it has earned a Michelin Star for 2024, a rare accolade in Argentina. The three-step menu, called Little Walk, is designed to showcase local, seasonal ingredients with a contemporary twist, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

The menu is structured as a gourmet experience with options for snacks, main courses, and desserts, all paired with excellent wines. The restaurant’s emphasis on pairing elevates the meal, turning it into a true celebration of Mendoza’s culinary talent. Expect dishes to be creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented, making it a memorable highlight of your day.

The Itinerary in Detail

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Stop 1: Los Toneles Winery

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Experience: Guided tour of the winery, focusing on its history and winemaking process
Tasting: Sample some of their finest wines, with insights into what makes Mendoza wines distinctive
Atmosphere: Authentic Mendoza charm, with a chance to walk through the historic winery spaces

What travelers say: One review mentions, “The group was so accommodating with our group,” highlighting the intimate setting and personal attention.

Stop 2: Azafrán Restaurant

Duration: Around 3 hours
Experience: Gourmet dinner featuring a three-course menu
Menu: Includes a snack, main course, and dessert, with wine pairing included
Ambiance: Elegant, contemporary setting, perfect for a relaxed, refined evening

What travelers say: A reviewer described it as “a great experience,” appreciating the culinary creativity and the pairing of wines with their meal.

Why This Tour Is a Great Value

The $250 per person price covers private transportation, admission to both venues, tastings, and a gourmet dinner. When you consider the cost of private transport alone, plus the quality of the winery visit and a Michelin-star dinner, this package offers a good value for those wanting an all-in-one Mendoza experience.

On top of that, the small group/private nature means you’re not rushed or squeezed into a large tour bus, and you can customize your experience within the schedule. The fact that you’re driven between locations means you can relax and fully enjoy each moment without worrying about driving yourself or navigating unfamiliar streets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about Mendoza’s winemaking traditions, food lovers interested in Argentine cuisine, and luxury travelers seeking an exclusive, well-curated day out. It’s especially suitable for those who value comfort, personalized service, and high-quality dining and wine experiences.

If you’re traveling with a partner, a small family, or friends, the private nature of the tour makes it particularly intimate and flexible. And if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Mendoza’s best offerings, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, a private, air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from your accommodation and takes you to both the winery and restaurant.

How long does the entire tour last? The experience lasts roughly 5 hours, with about 2 hours at Los Toneles and 3 hours at Azafrán.

Can I customize the experience? Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferred pace and interests with your driver, making adjustments as needed.

Is this suitable for all ages? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but the focus on wine tasting means it’s best for those over legal drinking age.

What is the dress code? Smart casual is appropriate, especially for the dinner at Azafrán.

How far in advance should I book? On average, travelers book about 42 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated? The menu at Azafrán is based on seasonal ingredients; it’s best to inquire in advance if you have special dietary needs.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Is the wine tasting included? Yes, the tasting at Los Toneles is part of the tour, with a selection of the winery’s best wines.

To sum it up, this private Mendoza tour offers a well-rounded experience combining wine, cuisine, and comfort. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, intimate look at Mendoza’s wine country and culinary scene without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in Mendoza’s finest, this tour provides a thoughtful, enjoyable way to savor the region’s best.