Mendoza’s wine country comes alive with this private tour visiting Vistalba and Susana Balbo. For $240 per person, you’ll spend about 4 to 6 hours exploring two exceptional wineries, tasting some of Argentina’s best wines, and savoring a delicious, locally inspired lunch in a setting that’s just as beautiful as the wines themselves. Led by your own private chauffeur, this experience offers comfort, flexibility, and an authentic taste of Mendoza’s renowned wine culture—perfect whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply looking to enjoy a marvelous day outside the city.

What we love about this tour is the combination of personalized transportation and the chance to visit prestigious wineries in Luján de Cuyo, a region famed for its high-quality Malbecs. The visit to Vistalba promises an engaging behind-the-scenes look, including a tour of underground cellars, while the lunch at Susana Balbo’s restaurant gives you a chance to pair award-winning wines with fresh, local ingredients. The sense of exclusivity—since it’s a private tour—means you won’t be part of a large, noisy group, and can instead focus on enjoying each moment.

One consideration to keep in mind: some reviews mention variable experiences at Susana Balbo, notably the setting and table placement. If you’re particularly after stunning mountain vistas during your meal, it’s worth confirming your seating preferences in advance. Otherwise, this tour is well-suited for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic Mendoza experience. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a more personal touch and the comfort of private transport.

Key Points

Private Transportation: Ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
Two Prestigious Wineries: Vistalba’s underground cellars and Susana Balbo’s acclaimed wines and restaurant.
Taste a Range of Wines: Including Vistalba, Tomero, and Progeny collections—perfect for wine enthusiasts.
Gourmet Lunch: Four-course meal paired with Susana Balbo wines, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
Authentic Experience: Small, private tour with personalized attention.
Great Value: Quality visits and tastings for a fair price considering the exclusivity.

A Closer Look at the Experience

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The Pickup and Transportation

From the moment your private driver arrives at your hotel, you’ll notice the emphasis on comfort. The air-conditioned vehicle guarantees a smooth ride between stops, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenic views of Mendoza’s vineyards and mountains. Because this is a private tour, you’re not sharing the vehicle with strangers, which means more flexibility on timing and stops.

Visiting Bodega Vistalba

Your first stop is the Vistalba Winery, located in Luján de Cuyo, a region celebrated for its ideal climate and soil for high-quality wines. The guided tour includes a walk through underground cellars—an atmospheric highlight—where aging wines are stored in cool darkness, perfect for understanding the wine-making process.

During the tasting, you’ll sample four wines from Vistalba’s collections: Vistalba, Tomero, and Progeny. These selections showcase the winery’s versatility and expertise. According to reviews, visitors found Vistalba “fun and engaging,” with the tasting experience being both informative and flavorful, which is exactly what you want when learning about the nuances of Argentine wines.

The Lunch at Susana Balbo

After a relaxed hour and a half at Vistalba, your driver will take you to Susana Balbo Winery, which boasts a stunning setting with mountain views. The highlight here is a 4-course lunch paired with Susana Balbo wines, offering a perfect balance of flavors. The restaurant, Adadía de Crear, is recognized by the Michelin Guide, and offers dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.

While one review mentions a less-than-ideal table placement—seated where the view was obscured—others rave about the food and wine pairing. You’ll enjoy a variety of dishes served with carefully selected wines, which elevate the meal into a true tasting event. The experience is further enhanced by the chance to try Susana Balbo’s award-winning wines, which are known for their elegance and consistency.

Final Return

Once lunch concludes, your private driver will pick you up and return you to your hotel. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed, with plenty of time to savor the wines, enjoy the scenery, and ask questions along the way.

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Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the price of $240 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded experience—private transport, visits to two renowned wineries, multiple tastings, and a gourmet lunch. The focus on personalized service means you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the flexibility allows you to tailor the day to your preferences.

While the price might seem high compared to self-guided visits, the added comfort, expert guidance, and curated experience make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting to maximize their Mendoza wine trip without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you appreciate authentic wine experiences paired with excellent food, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer private, hassle-free transportation and want to explore Mendoza’s top wineries with a knowledgeable guide (or driver). It’s also a great choice for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a relaxed, intimate day in the vineyards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour offers private, air-conditioned transportation from your hotel and back, making the day comfortable and stress-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on how long you spend at each winery and during lunch.

Are the visits and tastings included?
Absolutely. The price covers visits to Vistalba and Susana Balbo, as well as tastings of four wines at Vistalba and the wine pairing with lunch at Susana Balbo.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in case your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate—it’s designed to be a relaxed, enjoyable experience. Check with the provider if you have special needs or mobility considerations.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour operates Monday through Saturday from early morning until noon, suitable for most schedules. Mendoza’s climate is generally pleasant, but visiting in spring or fall can enhance the scenery and weather.

To sum it up, this private Mendoza wine tour offers a balanced mix of educational tastings, stunning scenery, and gourmet dining—all delivered with personalized service. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy Mendoza’s acclaimed wines without the noise and rush of larger groups. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in Argentina’s renowned wine and food culture, this experience promises to be both memorable and authentically Mendoza.