A Day in Mendoza’s Uco Valley: Visiting Salentein Winery with Lunch and Tasting

If you’re craving a taste of Argentina’s premier wine region without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating unfamiliar roads, this private tour to Salentein Winery might just be your perfect day out. For around $360 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly six-hour trip that includes round-trip hotel transfers in Mendoza, a guided tour of one of the most striking wineries in South America, a delicious multi-course lunch paired with fine wines, and plenty of opportunities to soak in the surrounding Andes mountain vistas.

Two aspects we particularly appreciated: First, the small group size — with a maximum of nine travelers, you get more personal attention and a relaxed pace. Second, the blend of art, architecture, and wine at Salentein, which makes this experience more than just a tasting; it’s a cultural outing.

The only potential downside? The tour’s itinerary is quite structured, so if you’re looking for a leisurely, unhurried exploration, you might find some parts feel a bit tight. Still, it’s perfect for those who want a well-rounded, immersive visit with highlights that include exquisite views and top-tier wine.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love good food and wine, are curious about Argentina’s wine-making traditions, and want a comfortable yet authentic way to explore the Uco Valley’s stunning landscape without worrying about driving.

Key Points

Private, all-inclusive transport makes for a relaxing day.
Stunning architecture and art at Salentein add cultural flair.
A multi-course lunch with wine pairings offers a true taste of local flavors.
Guided winery tour provides insights into Argentina’s winemaking process.
Limited group size enhances personalized attention.
Great views of the Andes during lunch and exploration.

A Deep Dive into the Salentein Uco Valley Experience

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The Convenience of Private Transfers

Starting at 11:30 am from your Mendoza hotel, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which means no worries about finding a meeting point or navigating unfamiliar roads. The transport, whether by car or mini-bus, is comfortable and intimate—perfect for a relaxed day. This is especially valuable given the roughly 90-minute drive through scenic landscapes that serve as a preview of the natural beauty ahead.

Salentein Winery: More Than Just a Vineyard

Arriving around noon near Tupungato, you step into a modern complex that is as much an art gallery and cultural center as it is a winery. The architecture is noteworthy—cathedral-like structures that evoke a sense of reverence, blending contemporary design with a sense of tradition. From the impressive underground barrel room to the gourmet restaurant, every detail is crafted to impress.

Guests rave about the views—many mention the “beautiful architecture” and the “sense of awe” when gazing at the snow-capped Andes behind the winery. As one reviewer noted, “the architecture was incredible, and the views of the mountains are unforgettable.” For wine lovers, the tour of the winery itself offers insights into the winemaking process and the region’s unique flavors.

The Multi-Course Lunch and Wine Pairings

The highlight for many visitors is the lunch, which is served in the winery’s gourmet restaurant. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines local ingredients with expertly curated wines. The menu varies depending on availability, but you can expect a multi-course meal with carefully selected wine pairings, providing a comprehensive introduction to Argentine cuisine.

One traveler shared that the dinner was “delicious and well-chosen,” with some noting that the wine tastings occur during the meal, giving a full flavor of what the region has to offer. Another mentioned that the restaurant’s glass walls afford a panoramic view of the Andes, adding a magical backdrop to the experience.

Guided Tour & Art Exploration

After lunch, you’ll take a guided tour of the winery, which typically lasts around two hours. The commentary offers insights into Salentein’s history, its innovative approach to winemaking, and the region’s climate influence.

Along With the winery tour, many visitors enjoy browsing the art gallery adjacent to the complex. The art collection showcases contemporary pieces, adding a cultural dimension to the visit. It’s a thoughtful touch that elevates the experience from purely tasting to appreciating the region’s creative spirit.

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Return Journey & Timing

At around 4 pm, it’s time to leave the winery and head back to Mendoza, arriving around 5:30 pm. This timing gives you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, although some might wish for a slightly longer visit, as one reviewer pointed out that the tour felt a bit quick.

Authentic Experiences & What You’ll Love

Many reviews highlight the stunning views of the Andes—a recurring theme that emphasizes how spectacular the scenery is during the drive, the lunch, and around the winery. Multiple visitors commend the modern architecture and art gallery, which provide a refreshing contrast to traditional wineries.

Guests also appreciate the personalized attention afforded by the small group size. Tessa, the guide mentioned by a reviewer, was praised for her “wonderful” service, making the day more enjoyable and informative.

The Value Factor

At $360 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers transport, lunch, winery tour, and tastings. While some might consider the price high, most agree that the quality of the experience, the stunning scenery, and the convenience make it worthwhile.

Considerations Before Booking

The structured schedule means that you will have limited free time at the winery. Also, the tasting during lunch is included in the price, but the reviews note that some might wish for additional tastings afterward. Keep in mind that guide services are not included—you’ll be with a driver, but for a more detailed explanation of wines, you might want to consider hiring a guide or asking your driver for extra insights.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, art lovers, and those who prefer a comfortable, all-inclusive experience. It suits travelers who want to relax without worrying about logistics, enjoy stunning mountain vistas, and indulge in Argentine cuisine. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic outing with a cultural twist, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a taste of Mendoza’s Uco Valley—its world-class wines, modern architecture, and breathtaking scenery—this tour offers considerable value. The combination of luxury, convenience, and cultural richness makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those short on time who want to maximize their experience.

While the pace may be a bit quick for some, the quality of the sights, food, and wine more than compensates. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a curated, memorable day that showcases the best of Argentina’s wine region without the stress of planning every detail.

If you’re keen to explore Argentina’s wine country with a good mix of comfort and culture, this tour will give you a well-rounded, beautiful snapshot of the Uco Valley—and leave you with plenty of stories and photos of the Andes as your backdrop.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get round-trip hotel transfers from Mendoza, a winery visit with wine tastings during lunch, and a multi-course meal at Salentein’s gourmet restaurant. Admission tickets to the winery and art gallery are included.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately a six-hour experience, starting with pickup at 11:30 am and returning around 5:30 pm.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, whether by car or mini-bus, the transport is described as comfortable. The focus is on providing a relaxed ride through scenic landscapes.

Can I customize the experience?
This particular tour has a fixed itinerary with structured timings. If you want more time at the winery or additional tastings, you might need to arrange it separately.

Are guide services included?
No, the tour includes a driver but not a guide. However, many reviews mention the driver’s attentiveness and helpfulness.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum number of travelers is nine, making for a more intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. If you plan to explore the art gallery or walk around the winery, consider bringing layers, especially since weather can change with altitude.

This private tour to Salentein Winery offers a fine balance of comfort, culture, and scenery—perfect for those looking to deepen their appreciation of Argentine wines amid spectacular mountain views.