Tour Bodega y Olivícola con Almuerzo en Maipú

If you’re planning a day in Mendoza and want to truly taste the region’s specialties, the Bodega y Olivícola con Almuerzo en Maipú offers a well-rounded experience. For $102 per person, you’ll spend around 6 to 7 hours exploring local wineries, an olive oil mill, and savoring a traditional Argentine lunch with carefully selected wines. This tour is ideal for those curious about Mendoza’s rich wine and olive oil traditions, offering a good mix of scenic visits and authentic tasting sessions.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a deliciously full itinerary with local flavors—from tasting chocolates with wine to enjoying a three-course meal paired with high-quality wines. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and a small group size (max 15 people) makes it both comfortable and intimate. Another highlight is the diversity of stops, showing the region’s agricultural richness beyond just vineyards.

One potential consideration is the timing of the day. According to some reviews, starting with the olive oil tour might have been preferable for a smoother flow, but overall, the schedule is flexible enough to keep everyone engaged. The lunch, while enjoyable, might not satisfy every palate if you’re expecting a more elaborate or varied menu, but it does offer a pairing of flavors that add value to the experience.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy food and drink as part of their cultural exploration, and those looking for a relaxed, rundown of Mendoza’s culinary traditions. If you’re a wine enthusiast wanting to discover boutique producers, or curious about olive oil and local delicacies, this tour hits many of those notes.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines wine tastings, olive oil visit, and a hearty Argentine meal.
• Authentic flavors: Tastes include chocolates, homemade mermeladas, and local olive products.
• Small group size: Ensures a more personal, less hurried visit.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle makes the day pleasant.
• Balanced schedule: Visits are spaced out, giving time to appreciate each stop without feeling rushed.
• Worth the price: Includes all tastings, meals, and transportation, offering solid value for a full day.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Casa Corbel – Bodega Sillon

The day kicks off in Maipú, a well-known wine-producing area, with a visit to Casa Corbel, a charming bodega campestre. Here, we appreciated the relaxed atmosphere of the estate—set in scenic countryside—that instantly sets a peaceful tone for the day. One of the highlights is the wine and chocolate pairing, which elevates what might otherwise be a straightforward tasting. The combination is described as “a perfect pairing” and suggests a focus on quality and thoughtfulness in the wine selection.

Guests also enjoy a delicious breakfast of sopaipillas, homemade mermeladas, and infusions. This countryside breakfast offers a taste of local produce and warm hospitality, giving visitors a genuine feel for regional flavors. The inclusion of this breakfast is appreciated, as it adds a relaxed, welcoming start to the tour, and sets a tone of authenticity.

Olive Oil Exploration at Pasrai

Next, the tour takes a turn toward Maipú’s renowned olive oil industry at Pasrai. Visitors get an up-close look at how olive oil is produced, and the tasting includes olives, various oils, and conservas—a real treat for lovers of flavorful, artisanal products. The cosmetics derived from olives are an unexpected bonus, showing how the region’s olive harvest extends beyond the kitchen.

The quality and knowledge shared during this stop shine through, making it a highlight for those interested in local agricultural practices. The tasting experience is straightforward but well-curated, and the opportunity to sample different oils and conservas helps deepen understanding of the regional olive oil industry.

Boutique Winery: Don Manuel Villafañe

The third stop is at the Boutique Bodega Villafañe, a producer known for its excellent varietal wines. Here, we explore the facilities, understanding the winemaking process on a smaller scale that emphasizes craftsmanship and quality. The wines are described as some of the best in the area, and the tasting showcases the region’s diversity of grapes.

The highlight is the lunch, a three-course meal paired with wines from the estate. While some reviews mention that the lunch could offer more options, the pairings are thoughtfully chosen, allowing us to enjoy the wines with each course. The intimate setting and personalized service elevate this meal beyond a simple lunch, transforming it into a true tasting experience.

Overall Experience

Throughout the day, the small group size fosters conviviality and gives everyone a chance to ask questions and connect with guides. The air-conditioned bus makes for a comfortable ride, especially on warm Mendoza days.

The tour’s schedule balances structured visits with free time for tasting and browsing, which we found ideal for absorbing the local flavors without feeling rushed. The admission tickets for each stop are included, which simplifies planning and ensures a seamless experience.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews echo that this tour provides excellent value—you get multiple tastings, a full meal, and transportation for just over a hundred dollars. The quality of the wines and the information shared make this an attractive option for anyone wanting a rounded taste of Mendoza’s culinary delights.

Though one review noted that lunch might be somewhat limited, the pairings of wines and local products compensate for this, offering a satisfying culinary experience. The guide’s knowledge and the well-selected stops help justify the cost, especially if you’re keen on small-group intimacy and authentic regional foods.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers and wine enthusiasts who appreciate a relaxed pace and authentic tastes. It’s also well-suited to travelers seeking a rundown of Mendoza’s agricultural bounty—not just its world-famous wines. If you prefer a more curated, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour ticks those boxes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to three stops: a bodega with wine and chocolate pairing, an olive oil mill with tastings, and a boutique winery with a three-step lunch and wine pairing. Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all tastings, and the lunch are included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, the maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

What about the lunch?
The three-step lunch is paired with wines from the boutique, offering a hearty and authentic Argentine meal. While some might wish for more options, the wine pairings add significant value.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, which makes the day easier, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate tour meeting point.

Final Thoughts

This Mendoza wine and olive oil tour offers a balanced, enjoyable day exploring the region’s culinary treasures. Its small-group setting, diverse stops, and inclusive tastings make it a good choice for travelers who want to see beyond the city and taste the local flavors in a relaxed environment. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, the quality of the wines, the authenticity of the products, and the knowledgeable guides will leave you with a greater appreciation for Mendoza’s rich gastronomic scene.

While the lunch may not be gourmet, it is a solid, well-paired meal that complements the tasting experience. The combination of wine, olive oil, and local treats offers excellent value, especially considering all logistics are handled for you. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy food and wine as cultural expressions and are eager to enjoy Mendoza’s farm-to-table traditions.

In summary, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, authentic, and friendly way to spend a day discovering Mendoza’s food and wine treasures, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a great choice for small groups, culinary explorers, and anyone wanting to taste the essence of Mendoza beyond its scenic landscapes.