A Personal Taste of Mendoza: Argentine BBQ & Winery Tour

If you’re visiting Mendoza and craving a blend of fine wines, stunning scenery, and authentic Argentine cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded day. For $195 per person, you’re treated to private transportation, visits to two hand-picked wineries, and a traditional asado (Argentine BBQ) at a local finca. Lasting around 5 to 6 hours, it’s a longer but thoroughly immersive experience that suits those who want to see the best of Mendoza’s viticulture while indulging in genuine local flavors.

What we love most about this tour? First, the personalized service with a private driver and guides who make each visit engaging and relaxed. Second, the delightful combination of wine tastings and a traditional Argentine BBQ, which captures the true hospitality and culinary pride of the region. A small drawback? The itinerary visits only two wineries, so if you’re eager to sample many, you might find this somewhat limiting. However, the quality and intimacy of the experience compensate nicely.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or travelers wanting an authentic local experience in Mendoza. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a personalized, relaxed pace over large group tours. Families and those traveling with children also find it accommodating, thanks to the flexible and friendly environment.

Key Points

Private Transport & Guides: Ensures a relaxed, personalized experience without the hassle of large groups.
Wineries & Tastings: Visit two thoughtfully selected wineries, each offering unique styles and flavors.
Authentic Argentine BBQ: End the day with a flavorful asado, in a cozy and welcoming setting.
Comprehensive Experience: Includes both wine education and culinary tradition, with lots of opportunities for tasting and conversation.
Flexible & Private: Customizable and only for your group, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.
Value for Money: For around $195, you get full transport, guided winery visits, tastings, and a hearty lunch, making it a solid choice for a full Mendoza day.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Starting Point: Convenience & Comfort

The tour kicks off with private pickup from your accommodation, which means no need to navigate unfamiliar streets or worry about transport logistics. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps everyone comfortable, especially if Mendoza’s weather turns warm. The driver, often praised as friendly and punctual, sets the tone for a smooth day.

Winery Visits: An Intimate Look at Mendoza’s Vineyards

The itinerary features up to 12 stops, but you’ll only visit two wineries, which are selected based on availability. Examples include Antigal, La Rural, Tempus Alba, Bombal, Roberto Bonfanti, Familia Cassone, Lopez, Domiciano, Don Manuel Villafañe, Santa Julia, and Carinae. Each provides a different perspective on Mendoza’s winemaking styles—from larger estate operations to smaller boutique wineries.

The guided tours of the wine facilities and vineyards give you insight into local winemaking traditions and the chance to see the vineyards up close. Tastings are included at each stop, and reviews highlight the diversity of wines, ranging from robust reds to crisp whites, with visitors noting the quality of the wines and the friendly, knowledgeable guides.

A Personal Touch at Each Winery

Several reviews mention excellent guides, like “José,” who made the visits engaging and informative. The experience isn’t rushed; instead, it’s tailored to your group, often with a focus on learning about the region’s viticulture and enjoying the wines at your leisure.

The Argentine BBQ: A True Cultural Experience

After the winery visits, the tour moves to Finca Terrada, where a traditional Argentine asado is served — usually in a cozy, inviting setting. Expect a carefully prepared fire with various cuts of meat, grilled to perfection. Reviewers rave about the delicious food and the friendly hosts, with some describing it as a “meal to remember.”

The BBQ isn’t just about the food; it’s about the ritual, the hospitality, and the sense of community that Argentinian asados evoke. You’ll learn about the customs surrounding the asado, which is more than a meal — it’s a social event.

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The Final Touch: Return & Relaxation

Once the meal concludes, your private driver will take you back to your hotel, completing a day that balances education, taste, and relaxation. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility of the tour, which allows for a more personal experience than large, bus-based excursions.

Authenticity & Value

Many guests mention how the small-group or private nature of this tour makes it feel more genuine and less commercialized. The local hosts and guides genuinely care about sharing Mendoza’s culture, which adds value beyond just the wine and food.

While the price might seem high for just two winery visits, the inclusion of transport, tastings, and a full meal makes it quite competitive, especially considering the personalized service and the access to smaller, boutique wineries.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a wine lover eager to taste a variety of Mendoza’s best and want an authentic, intimate experience, this tour suits you well. Families looking for a family-friendly environment find it accommodating, especially the few reviews praising the experience with children. Foodies who love Argentine cuisine and want to see how it’s prepared in a relaxed setting will also enjoy the BBQ.

However, if you’re aiming to visit many wineries in a single day, this might seem limited. But for those seeking depth over breadth, the quality-focused visits and cultural experience make it worth the price.

Practical Tips

Book in advance: The tour is popular and usually booked around 60 days ahead.
Wear comfortable shoes: Winery tours often involve walking through vineyards and facilities.
Ask about the wineries: You can sometimes request different wineries if available.
Arrive hungry: The BBQ is generous and delicious.
Prepare for a relaxed pace: This isn’t a high-speed tour but a leisurely exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You get private transportation, visits and tastings at two wineries, and a traditional Argentine BBQ lunch.

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit only two wineries, selected based on availability, but each offers a different perspective on Mendoza’s wines.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, reviews mention it’s accommodating for families with children, with friendly guides and flexible options.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 to 6 hours, including transport, visits, tastings, and lunch.

Can I choose which wineries to visit?
Wineries are selected based on availability, but you can sometimes request specific ones if booked early.

Is the BBQ outdoor or indoors?
It typically takes place in a cozy finca setting, either outdoors or in a covered area, depending on the weather.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Arrive hungry and comfortable. Wear suitable shoes for walking through vineyards.

How is the transportation arranged?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly driver handles all transfers.

What do reviews say about the experience?
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the quality of wines, and the delicious, authentic food.

What if I don’t speak Spanish?
Most guides speak enough English to explain the process and the wines, making the experience accessible for non-Spanish speakers.

In the end, this Mendoza tour offers a genuine taste of Argentina’s wine and culinary traditions, wrapped in a relaxed, private setting. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy good wines, learn about local customs, and savor a traditional asado without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or just looking to experience Mendoza’s hospitality, this tour balances quality, authenticity, and comfort in a way that leaves a lasting memory.