Ultimate Maipú Adventure: Winery Tour & Gourmet Lunch

A Taste of Mendoza’s Maipú Valley: Winery Tour & Gourmet Lunch

Imagine spending a day exploring some of the most charming wineries in Mendoza’s Maipú Valley, where history, scenery, and exceptional wines come together. For $239 per person, this 7 to 9-hour experience offers a chance to visit three distinctive wineries, each with its own story, culminating in a delicious gourmet lunch set against spectacular mountain vistas. The tour begins at 9:00 am with pickup included, making it a hassle-free way to indulge in Mendoza’s renowned wine culture.

What we particularly love about this tour is how personalized and authentic it feels—your guides are passionate about wine and food, ensuring that every stop highlights the best local products. Two standout features for us are the chance to visit centuries-old cellars and the beautiful surrounding landscapes, which provide picture-perfect moments. The only potential downside? The full day means a fair bit of time on your feet and in the van, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a longer experience and curious to learn about Mendoza’s winemaking traditions.

This tour suits anyone eager for a comprehensive, immersive experience — whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply want a taste of local culture combined with excellent cuisine. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate small, private groups and want to avoid the more commercialized, rushed tours. If you’re after a relaxed but detailed exploration of Mendoza’s wine scene, this one fits the bill well.

Key Points

• Authentic visits to family-run and historic wineries
• Beautiful mountain landscapes and stunning scenery
• Gourmet multi-course lunch in a charming setting
• Knowledgeable guides passionate about wine and local stories
• All-inclusive price offers good value for a full day
• Private tour experience ensures personalized attention

Exploring the Maipú Valley: An Authentic Wine & Gastronomy Journey

We find that Mendoza’s Maipú Valley is a treasure trove for wine lovers looking to go beyond the surface. This tour is designed to introduce you to the heart of Mendoza’s wine industry, with visits to special wineries that tell their own stories through their wines and history. The day is carefully structured, balancing visits to old-world wineries with scenic breaks and a memorable gourmet lunch.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Awaits You

Stop 1: Domaine St Diego
Your day begins at Domaine St Diego, a family operation run by Angel Mendoza and his family since 1988. This is where the journey into family passion and tradition kicks off. Located in the Lunlunta district, the winery’s soil is especially suited for their limited production wines. Here, you’ll get a sense of what makes family-run wineries in Mendoza so special—the personal touch, the stories, and the dedication to quality. We loved the way Angel’s family history is woven into every bottle, giving the tasting a warm, personal vibe.

Stop 2: Bodega Benegas
Next, you’ll visit Bodega Benegas, a winery with a history stretching back to a vineyard planted by Federico Benegas Lynch’s great-grandfather in 1999. This is a centennial winery and boasts some of Mendoza’s most beautiful and ancient cellars. The blend of history and craftsmanship here makes it a highlight for many visitors. Expect to see large, aged oak barrels and learn about the traditional techniques still used today—an authentic glimpse into Mendoza’s winemaking roots.

Stop 3: Club Tapiz Hotel & Restó
The final stop is a delightful treat—a three-course gourmet lunch at the historic Club Tapiz, a 1890 residence surrounded by vineyards and olive trees. The setting is charming, and the meal is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing local flavors with a fine dining touch. You’ll also tour the winery that once made wine until 2002, with its walls now hosting art and wine exhibits, including a marvelous mural by Sergio Roggerone. This is where you can relax and soak in the scenic beauty as you savor your meal, paired with excellent local wines.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

We love the diversity and authenticity of these wineries. Each offers something unique—be it the family-led passion at Domaine St Diego, the historic grandeur at Bodega Benegas, or the elegant setting and cuisine at Club Tapiz. Having guides who are themselves lovers of good food and wine guarantees that the quality of both the wines and the stories is top-notch.

The Experience in Action

From the moment you’re picked up, the journey feels personal. The small group size ensures conversations flow easily, and your guides can answer all your questions. You’ll find the scenic mountain vistas a perfect backdrop for photos, and the capacity of each winery to tell their story ensures a well-rounded experience.

The lunch is a highlight—delicious, well-presented, and served in a historical setting surrounded by vines. It’s a good opportunity to relax, chat, and enjoy the flavors of Mendoza, complemented by the local wines you’ve tasted throughout the day.

An Honest Look: Pros and Cons

While this tour offers a lot of value, the full-day format might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to long days of touring. It involves multiple stops and travel time, which means less relaxation than a half-day tour might offer. However, for wine enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive experience, this is a minor consideration.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just a quick tasting. It’s ideal for those interested in learning about the traditions and stories behind Mendoza’s wines, and who appreciate beautiful landscapes and excellent food. If you’re traveling with someone who’s a wine novice but eager to learn, or if you’re a seasoned oenophile seeking to deepen your understanding, this tour offers something for all.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

At $239, this tour provides a full day of engaging, well-curated activities. The combination of historic wineries, scenic views, and a gourmet meal makes it a good value, especially considering the all-inclusive nature of the experience. The fact that it’s a private tour or small group means more personalized attention, which we believe adds to the overall enjoyment.

The carefully chosen stops inside families’ private wineries and historic cellars give you a sense of pride and tradition that larger, more commercialized tours might lack. Plus, the gourmet lunch elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a true taste of Mendoza’s culinary culture.

FAQs

• How long does the tour last?
  It lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with flexible timing at each stop.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, pickup is offered, making for a convenient start to your day.

• What’s the group size?
  This is a private experience or small-group tour, ensuring personalized service and attention.

• Are the wineries family-owned?
  Yes, at least two of the stops, Domaine St Diego and Bodega Benegas, are family-run, offering genuine stories and personal touches.

• What’s the meal like?
  You’ll enjoy a three-course gourmet lunch in a historic setting, paired with local wines.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

• Is this suitable for non-wine drinkers?
  While focused on wine, the experience includes scenic views, cultural stories, and a delicious meal, making it enjoyable even if you’re not a wine enthusiast.

• What should I bring?
  Bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a hat or sunglasses for the outdoor scenery.

To sum it up, the “Ultimate Maipú Adventure” offers a balanced, authentic way to explore Mendoza’s wine and culinary culture. It’s best suited for those who value stories behind the wine, beautiful scenery, and good food in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to learn about local traditions, this tour provides a memorable taste of Mendoza’s heart and soul.