Experience the Mendoza Valle de Uco with a Private Tour to Bodega Salentein and La Azul
If you’re craving a day of stunning mountain vistas, first-class wines, and delicious local cuisine, this private Mendoza tour offers just that—plus a bit more. Priced at $250 per person and lasting around seven hours, this experience takes you to two of the region’s most distinctive wineries: Salentein, famed for its striking architecture and art exhibitions, and La Azul, known for its country charm and exceptional food.
Salentein is a different winery, the building is beautiful, with sculptures all around and it has an art exhibition too. The wines are pretty good. Then, La Azul is a more country like scenery, a nice garden sorrounded by the mountains. Here the attention and food were outstanding. But still, it…
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The modern architecture of Salentein is rather unique, but the visit with tasting was rather common, nothing special. The bar was closed and we couldnt taste other rotules. The lunch was fine, but the wines were nothing special.
Salentein Winery tour was just average. Lunch at La Azul was five star, in a beautiful setting. The lunch was the highlight of the day
What we love about this tour is how it balances wine education with culinary delights. The guided tour of Salentein's underground cellar and production areas provides insight into modern winemaking, while the gourmet three-course lunch at La Azul offers a chance to savor regional flavors in a relaxed setting. Plus, the private transportation makes the day smooth and stress-free.
A small but important consideration is that some reviews mention the value for money being a bit questionable, especially if you're expecting a highly personalized or exclusive experience at Salentein. If you're more interested in a scenic, food-and-wine-centered day rather than a deeply educational winery tour, this might still be a perfect fit.
This trip suits travelers who enjoy a beautiful setting, are curious about Mendoza's wine culture, and appreciate a luxurious yet authentic experience. It's especially appealing if you want the flexibility of private transport and a leisurely pace, with time for both tasting and tasting good.
Key Points
- Private transportation ensures comfort and convenience from start to finish.
- Salentein's architecture and art exhibitions add a cultural touch to the winery visit.
- The wine tastings include both Reserve and Numina wines, with options for sparkling wines.
- The three-course lunch at La Azul is a highlight, offering regional dishes paired with local wines.
- Some reviews suggest the overall value might be less impressive than the experience itself.
- The timing allows ample time for tasting, sightseeing, and enjoying the scenic drive through Valle de Uco.
A Thorough Look at What You Can Expect
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Mendoza
The Drive to Valle de Uco
The journey from Mendoza city to Valle de Uco takes roughly 90 minutes, but it’s worth every minute. The road winds through lush vineyards and rugged mountains, with views that make the drive feel almost meditative. Many reviewers, like Nataly, mention how "the views of the vineyards and the Andes make it an easy ride," and we agree: this scenery alone adds significant value to the day.
Visiting Bodega Salentein
At Salentein, you’ll be greeted by a building that’s truly a work of art. Its contemporary architecture and sculptures create a sense of entering a gallery rather than just a winery. A guided tour takes you through the vineyards, the production areas, and the underground cellar, giving you a rich sense of how their wines are crafted.
The tastings include four wines, with the selection depending on availability and language preference. The "great tasting of their wines" is highlighted by many, though some, like Luiz, found the wines "nothing special," indicating that taste preferences can vary. The Reserve and Numina wines stand out as the flagship offerings, and the option to include sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch.
While some visitors found the architecture and art “beautiful” and the guided tour informative, others, like Luiz, thought the experience was “rather common” and felt the tastings didn't live up to expectations. It’s worth noting that the admission ticket is included in the price, but keep your expectations in check if you're looking for a deep dive into winemaking.
The Experience at La Azul
After the winery visit, your group heads to La Azul for a horizontally expansive, country-style setting. The lunch is a standout—three courses paired with wine, including a starter, main, and dessert, with each step complemented by a different local wine. Reviewers like Martha called this “fabulous,” and Jennifer added that the atmosphere was “relaxing and entertaining,” especially with a saxophonist playing requests.
The food is hearty and regional, with some reviews mentioning it as the “highlight of the day,” while others see it as simply “fine,” which emphasizes how personal taste plays a role here. The attention and food at La Azul seem to impress most, though some note the perceived price as somewhat high for the experience.
The Overall Experience
Throughout the day, you'll appreciate the air-conditioned vehicle that transports you comfortably, especially in the warm Mendoza climate. The private setting is a plus, as it allows for a more relaxed, personalized experience compared to group tours.
Many travelers, including Ana and Martha, mention how the scenery, architecture, and delicious lunch made the trip memorable. However, as LUIZ notes, the tasting experience at Salentein might feel "common" for some, and the overall value for money could be a point of debate, especially if you’re used to more exclusive or intimate wine experiences.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for those who want a beautiful scenic drive through Mendoza’s Uco Valley, combined with good quality wines and a sumptuous meal. It’s perfect if you enjoy cultural touches like art and architecture, and are looking for a comfortable, private experience.
If you’re a wine enthusiast eager for in-depth tastings and behind-the-scenes knowledge, you might find Salentein’s offerings somewhat limited. Conversely, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with excellent food and wine pairings, this tour will suit you well.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?
This private Mendoza tour provides a well-rounded day in the Uco Valley, blending spectacular views, impressive architecture, and delicious regional cuisine. The private transport and mildly paced itinerary make it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more intimate, flexible experience rather than large group tours.
While some reviews highlight that the wine tastings didn’t always meet high expectations, the scenic drive, art-filled winery, and gourmet lunch more than compensate. It’s a good fit for romantic couples, culinary travelers, or those wanting a relaxed, scenic day out of Mendoza.
Overall, if you value beautiful settings, good wines, and excellent food, and don’t mind a modest price point relative to the experience, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Mendoza’s best.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the day comfortable and hassle-free.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for winery visits, lunch, and travel.
What wines are tasted at Salentein?
The tasting includes four wines, with options such as Salentein Reserve, Salentein Numina, and sparkling wine, depending on availability and language.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-course meal with wine pairings at La Azul is part of the experience, lasting around four hours.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available up to that point.
Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.
This private tour to Bodega Salentein and La Azul combines the best of Mendoza’s wine country with comfort, scenery, and regional flavors. Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, memorable day out in the Uco Valley.
