Tasting The Enemy + Lunch Santa Julia. Private transfer

Mendoza Wine Tour: Tasting The Enemy + Lunch Santa Julia with Private Transfer

If you’re heading to Mendoza and want to combine wine, good food, and personalized service, this tour offers an intimate look at some of the region’s top wineries, complete with tastings and a delicious lunch. For around $260 per person, you’ll spend about five hours being chauffeured from your hotel to two distinguished vineyards—El Enemigo and Santa Julia—and enjoying a gourmet meal in the process.

What we love about this experience is how it blends art and passion at El Enemigo, a winery created by Alejandro Vigil, with the warm hospitality and culinary excellence of Santa Julia, owned by the Zuccardi family. Both stops are thoughtfully chosen for their quality and authentic character. Plus, the private transfer ensures a relaxed, unrushed day—no awkward group mingling or crowded tasting rooms.

A consideration worth noting is the price—while it’s on the higher side compared to some group tours, the personalized service, exclusive tastings, and a sumptuous lunch make it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers and foodies alike. This tour is particularly suited for travelers who appreciate premium wines, private experiences, and local cuisine. If you’re after a more laid-back, authentic encounter with Mendoza’s wine scene, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private Transportation: Ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• Exclusive Visits: Focused visits at El Enemigo and Santa Julia provide a more intimate experience.
• Wine Tasting & Lunch: Guided tastings paired with a carefully curated meal highlight Mendoza’s terroir and culinary talent.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off save time and add comfort.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on craftsmanship, art, and local flavors.
• Ideal for: Wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone wanting a personalized Mendoza experience.

Exploring the Mendoza Wine Tour: An In-Depth Look

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour begins with a private driver arriving at your accommodation—an appreciated touch that sets the tone for a relaxed day. As you settle into an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head toward El Enemigo—a winery that’s as much an art project as a wine producer. Created by Alejandro Vigil, this winery is famous for its innovative approach and distinctive labels that reflect Mendoza’s unique terroir.

At El Enemigo, the focus is on understanding the story behind the wines. The visit includes a tour of the winery, where you’ll see the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. The highlight here is the guided tasting, which takes about 40 minutes and features three different wines. According to reviews, the wines at El Enemigo are known for their quality and depth, with some visitors noting their appreciation for the artistic presentation and expressive character.

After the visit, you’ll head to Santa Julia, a prominent Zuccardi property renowned for its warm hospitality and excellent cuisine. The lunch served here is more than just a meal; it’s a carefully curated experience that pairs local dishes with top-quality wines. The menu emphasizes authentic flavors and is praised for its generous portions and attentive service.

The tasting at Santa Julia involves sampling wines from their carefully selected collection, with some reviews mentioning that although some wines were not considered the absolute best, the overall food and wine pairing made for an excellent experience. The ambiance is described as friendly and inviting, making it a perfect end to your Mendoza wine journey.

Finally, your private driver will bring you back to your hotel, leaving you with lasting impressions of Mendoza’s vibrant wine scene and warm hospitality.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guide (or driver, in this case), who is noted for courtesy and attentiveness. You’ll appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to ask questions without feeling rushed.

Plus, the combination of art, history, and passion at El Enemigo makes the visit more than just wine tasting—it’s about understanding what makes Mendoza wines unique. Meanwhile, the lunch at Santa Julia transforms a typical winery visit into a festival of flavors, elevating the overall experience.

The Value for the Price

While $260 might seem steep at first glance, this fee covers private transportation, exclusive winery visits, guided tastings, and a full meal, which adds up to a much richer experience than a typical group tour. The personalized service and attention to detail ensure you gain a deeper appreciation for Mendoza’s wines and culinary offerings.

A Few Considerations

The main consideration is the cost, which might be prohibitive for some travelers. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for those who value comfort and exclusivity over budget price points. If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly or group experience, other options might be better.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for wine connoisseurs, food lovers, or travelers seeking an authentic, personalized Mendoza experience. If you appreciate artistic wines, gourmet cuisine, and good company, you’ll find this tour highly satisfying. It’s also ideal for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious day of tasting and dining.

Practical Tips for Your Mendoza Wine Tour

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about a month ahead—especially in peak season—so plan early.
• Bring your ID: Alcoholic beverages are served only to adults.
• Dress comfortably: Winery visits usually involve walking and standing, so wear casual but tidy clothing.
• Allocate time for relaxation: The five-hour duration includes travel, visits, tastings, and meal, so set aside enough time to enjoy without rushing.
• Ask your driver: Feel free to inquire about additional insights—local stories, wine details, or sightseeing tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, alcoholic beverages are only served to adults, but the sightseeing and dining can be enjoyed by all.

How long do the visits at each winery last?
The visit at El Enemigo lasts about 40 minutes, with a guided tasting of three wines. The Santa Julia visit and lunch are more relaxed, allowing for plenty of time to enjoy the meal and wines.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation, guided visits at both wineries, tastings, and a full lunch are included.

Is the tour customizable?
Since it’s a private experience, you might be able to discuss specific preferences with your driver or guide—such as focusing more on wine, or adjusting timing.

Do I need to worry about transportation logistics?
Not at all. Your driver will handle all the logistics, giving you peace of mind and more time to enjoy the scenery and wine.

How far are the wineries from Mendoza city?
While exact distances aren’t specified, both wineries are close enough to Mendoza to allow for a comfortable, scenic drive.

Can I visit other wineries instead?
This tour is specifically designed around El Enemigo and Santa Julia, but for other options, you may need to look for different tours or customize your itinerary.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable, but since you’ll be dining and tasting wines, a tidy appearance is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Mendoza wine tour offers a hands-on, luxurious experience that balances exclusive winery visits, guided tastings, and a gourmet meal. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to delve deeper into Mendoza’s wine culture with personalized service, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge.

While the price might be a barrier for some, the value of the private transfer, intimate visits, and quality food makes it a worthwhile splurge for wine lovers and foodies. Expect a blend of art, passion, and flavor that will give you memorable stories to tell long after your trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and a tailored experience—a perfect way to explore Mendoza’s renowned wine scene with ease and style.