Full day tour in Maipu: Winery and Lunch Tour

A day exploring Mendoza’s wine heartland—Maipu—offers a perfect blend of local culture, delicious wines, and hearty cuisine. For $220 per person, you’ll spend approximately 7 hours discovering some of the region’s renowned wineries, with a comfortable pickup from Mendoza city, all wrapped up in a small group setting. The tour includes visits to La Cava de Karim Mussi and Casa Agostino’s restaurant, with tastings, a guided tour, and a luxurious multi-course lunch, making it a well-rounded experience for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines informative wine tastings led by knowledgeable guides—like Karim Mussi himself—and a sit-down lunch designed by a skilled chef, highlighting regional Argentine-Italian cuisine. Both stops are carefully selected to give you a taste of true local craftsmanship and culinary tradition. Another highlight is the small-group atmosphere, which means you get more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe that larger tours often lack.

One potential consideration is that the itinerary is quite full, so if you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely pace, you might find the 3-hour lunch and winery visits a bit tight. Also, the availability of wineries can vary, so it’s wise to book ahead and have some flexibility. This tour suits those who want to maximize their day with a mix of wine, culture, and cuisine while enjoying the comfort of a guided experience.

If you’re visiting Mendoza and want to understand why it’s the first and most famous wine region in Argentina, this tour offers a balanced glimpse into the local wine world, with a dash of authentic Argentine-Italian flavors. It’s ideal for first-timers, foodies, or anyone eager to see Mendoza’s best in a single day.

Key Points

• Expert guides provide insights into wine-making and regional culture.
• Visit to La Cava de Karim Mussi offers a deep dive into the winemaker’s craft.
• Gourmet lunch paired with wines at Casa Agostino adds a culinary highlight.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed experience.
• All-inclusive with tastings, lunch, bottled water, and transportation.
• Coverage of top wineries in Mendoza’s first wine region, Maipu.

Exploring Mendoza’s Maipu: An Authentic Wine Day

Mendoza is Argentina’s most famous wine region, and Maipu is its very heart—full of vineyards, history, and flavor. This full-day tour takes you from the city of Mendoza to two prominent wineries, combining guided tastings, insightful commentary, and a delicious Argentine-Italian lunch. For $220, it offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those who want to taste the local spirit without the fuss of independent planning.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: La Cava de Karim Mussi

Your journey begins with a 30-minute drive from Mendoza to La Cava de Karim Mussi. This is not just a tasting; it’s an immersion into the world of a renowned winemaker. Karim Mussi is known for his craftsmanship and dedication, and you’ll have the chance to tour his winery, learn about how Mendoza’s distinctive wines are produced, and hear stories about its past.

The guided tour here is about two hours, which means plenty of time to ask questions and really understand the process behind the wines. The wine tasting at this stop is included, giving you the chance to savor some of the best bottles and compare different varieties. From reviews, we know that the experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides and quality tastings, making it clear that this stop is a highlight for most.

Stop 2: Casa Agostino – Winery & Restaurant

The second part of your day involves a more leisurely, three-hour-and-twenty-minute visit to Casa Agostino. Here, the focus shifts from education to culinary enjoyment. The restaurant offers a step-by-step lunch prepared by Chef Edward Holloway, with dishes that celebrate Italian-Argentine cuisine. During the meal, wines from the winery are expertly paired with each course, elevating the entire experience.

The lunch is designed to be a luxury treat—think carefully curated dishes served in a cozy, authentic setting. Reviewers have described the lunch as “luxury” and “delicious,” with the pairing of wines and food being a definite highlight. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, which is a thoughtful touch for diverse dietary needs. Given the high praise for the pairing quality and the relaxed atmosphere, this is a true culinary highlight of the tour.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The experience includes air-conditioned transportation, making the trip comfortable regardless of Mendoza’s often warm weather. You’ll also enjoy bottled water and wines during tastings and lunch, ensuring hydration and flavor enhancement. The tour guides at the wineries are included—adding valuable insights into each location.

Notably, breakfast isn’t included, so plan to have a light meal before the tour if you’re hungry in the morning. The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and allows for better interaction and personalized attention.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

This tour stands out because it balances educational winery visits with gourmet dining. Many travelers report that the guides are knowledgeable and that the wineries are chosen for their authenticity and quality. From a quote in a review: “punctuality, quality tours and luxury lunch”—these are the hallmarks of a well-organized, memorable day.

The Value of This Tour

At $220, the price might seem steep compared to self-guided visits, but it includes all transportation, tastings, and a high-end lunch. For those short on time or unfamiliar with Mendoza, the convenience and curated approach add significant value. Plus, the small group setting helps foster a relaxed environment, making it easier to connect and learn.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book well in advance, especially during peak season, since the tour is popular.
• Arrive prepared for a full day—you’ll want comfortable shoes and sun protection.
• Confirm vegetarian or vegan options when booking if needed.
• Keep in mind that winery availability can vary, so flexibility is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a comprehensive view of Mendoza’s wine offerings. It’s also excellent for culinary travelers who want to indulge in regional flavors paired with local wines. The small-group format and expert guides make it suitable for those who prefer a more personalized, intimate experience over large, generic tours.

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful vineyard scenery, enjoys guided tastings, and wants to enjoy a relaxing gourmet lunch, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially ideal for those who value authenticity—both in the wines and the cuisine—and want to learn about Mendoza’s history through expert commentary.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Maipu tour offers a well-structured, immersive experience into Mendoza’s wine and food scene. It balances educational winery visits with a luxurious lunch—all within a cozy, small-group setting. The knowledgeable guides and high-quality tastings ensure you leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s wines, while the authentic culinary experience leaves your taste buds satisfied.

For those craving a comprehensive, authentic Mendoza experience without the hassle of planning, this tour provides excellent value. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, the combination of guided tours, tastings, and a gourmet lunch makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Argentina’s premier wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is breakfast included in this tour?
No, breakfast isn’t included, so it’s best to have a light meal before the tour begins to stay energized.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours, including transportation, winery visits, tastings, and lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Chile 1104 in Mendoza and ends back at the same point, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?
Yes, the lunch at Casa Agostino’s restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options, which can be requested when booking.

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day, making travel between stops comfortable and hassle-free.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

This tour in Maipu is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to explore Mendoza’s wine and culinary scene in a single, well-organized day. It’s ideal for those who value authentic experiences, expert guides, and high-quality wines paired with regional flavors—all in a relaxed, small-group setting.