Mendoza: Full Day Wine Tour with 3 Course Lunch — a well-rounded way to explore Argentina’s famed wine country. For $164 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours walking among vineyards, tasting some top-tier wines, and enjoying a hearty meal surrounded by mountains and endless vines. The tour covers two carefully selected wineries, with options to visit in the Luján de Cuyo, Maipú, or Valle de Uco regions, giving you a taste of Mendoza’s diverse terroirs.

One thing we love is how the guides explain the entire process of winemaking — how climate, soil, and native traditions influence each glass. The other highlight is the lunch experience, which varies from a traditional 3-course meal to a picnic, all paired with wines that truly enhance the flavors of the dishes. Both make the day feel more like a cultural experience than just a tasting tour.

A possible consideration is that some wineries might be unavailable or closed unexpectedly. While the tour operators try to stick to the plan, it’s good to be flexible. Also, because the tour is quite full-day, travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger longer at each stop.

This tour suits those who appreciate learning about wine as well as tasting it, and who don’t mind a busy day of sightseeing. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the quality of wines and food as standouts, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting an authentic yet accessible Mendoza experience.

Key Points

All-inclusive experience with visits to two wineries, tastings, and a three-course (or picnic) lunch.
Diverse regions: options to explore Luján de Cuyo, Maipú, or Valle de Uco for different landscapes and terroirs.
Educational aspect: guides explain winemaking, terroir, and climate influences.
Authentic dining: a hearty lunch paired with wines enhances the experience.
Flexible booking: cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later.
Group size & guide: small groups and multilingual guides make for a personable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Mendoza

The Itinerary and What You’ll Encounter

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Mendoza, which is convenient and avoids the hassle of arranging transportation yourself. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours—a good chunk of time to soak in the scenery, learn, and taste without feeling rushed. Depending on your booking and the winery availability, the itinerary typically includes visits to two wineries renowned for their different approaches to winemaking.

One of the standout points from reviews is how the guides, like Felix and Chris, are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They walk you through the process of wine production, explaining how terroir, climate, and grape varieties influence flavor profiles. This educational component turns tasting into a real insight into Mendoza’s winemaking heritage.

Visiting Wineries — What’s in Store

The choices of wineries are impressive: names like Santa Julia de Familia Zuccardi, Domaine Bosquet, Jean Bousquet, Salentein, and others. Each has its own charm, whether a family-run operation or a larger production site. For instance, one review mentions a contrast between a family winery and a big commercial one, providing a well-rounded perspective on local wine production.

The tastings are generally well explained and generous, with multiple wines offered at each stop. As Frazer noted, the wine pairings with lunch are “very good,” which suggests the wines are thoughtfully selected to complement the meal rather than just served as a palate cleanser.

The Lunch — A Feast for the Senses

The highlight for many is the lunch experience. Depending on your choice, you’ll enjoy either a 3-course meal or a picnic in the scenic vineyards. The reviews praise the quality and flavor of the food, with Chris describing the lunch as “fantastic.” The pairing of wines with the meal elevates the whole experience, making it not just about drinking wine but appreciating how it complements Argentine cuisine.

The setting at wineries like Santa Julia or Salentein offers stunning views of vineyards and mountains, giving a real sense of place. The ambiance is relaxed yet sophisticated, perfect for wine lovers or those looking to indulge in Mendoza’s gourmet culture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Touches

Some tours include a small olive oil tasting or other regional specialties, adding variety to the day. A review from Joanna notes that the guide was friendly and attentive, and the coordination was smooth. It’s clear that the tour aims to balance education with enjoyment, ensuring guests feel well looked after.

While in Mendoza, here are other experiences we've covered

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation is included, with pickups from hotels or central Mendoza addresses, which is very convenient.
Timing: check availability for starting times, as schedules can vary.
Group Size: the tour tends to be small, fostering a more intimate experience.
Languages: guides speak Spanish, English, and Portuguese, catering to a wide range of travelers.
Cost: at $164, the price includes most essentials, but you might find value in the quality of the wines, food, and guides’ insights.

What Could Be Improved?

Some travelers mention that not all wineries listed may be open during your visit, which could cause slight changes in the itinerary. Also, the location of the lunch might differ from the initially advertised winery, as one review pointed out. Travelers should be prepared for slight modifications and contact the tour provider if they have specific preferences or dietary restrictions.

Who Would Love This Experience?

If you’re eager to see Mendoza’s diverse wine regions, learn about winemaking techniques, and enjoy a beautiful meal with wine pairings, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited to first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of planning individual winery visits. The knowledgeable guides and quality tastings make it worthwhile for those wanting an educational experience as well as a taste of Mendoza’s finest wines.

However, if you prefer more personalized, less structured wine experiences or have specific wineries in mind, you might consider other options. Still, for the average traveler seeking value and variety in one day, this tour hits many marks.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a balanced mix of scenic beauty, educational insight, and excellent food and wine, this tour offers good value. The scenic vineyards, mountain views, and variety of wineries ensure you get a comprehensive taste of Mendoza’s wine scene. The guided explanations help deepen your appreciation, making this more than just a tasting trip.

The lunch is often praised as a highlight, transforming the day into a celebration of local flavors. The small group size and multilingual guides make it accessible and engaging, and the flexibility with booking and cancellations adds peace of mind.

While some minor adjustments in winery availability may occur, the overall experience is likely to deliver the kind of memorable, authentic Mendoza wine adventure many travelers seek. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine stunning scenery, good company, and a deeper understanding of Argentina’s world-renowned wines.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to two wineries with guided tastings, and a 3-course lunch with drinks. Guides speak Spanish, English, and Portuguese.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts about 8 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for the outdoor portions.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, you should specify any dietary restrictions when booking so the wineries can accommodate your needs.

What if some wineries are closed?
If certain wineries are unavailable, the tour will be held at a similar winery of the same standard, ensuring you still get a quality experience.

In summary, this Mendoza wine tour is a well-crafted, value-packed way to explore Argentina’s top wine regions, enjoy delicious food, and learn from expert guides. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to understand the wines they’re tasting and to soak in the stunning vineyard vistas.