Sip & Savor: Private Tour of Three Charming Wineries

Mendoza’s Wines Uncorked: A Private Tour of Three Charming Wineries

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through lush vineyards, tasting Argentine Malbecs, and enjoying a gourmet meal in the heart of Mendoza, this private winery tour could be just what you’re looking for. Priced at $249 per person, it offers a full day of exploring Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, two of the most celebrated wine regions in the world. Led by a knowledgeable guide—Patricia, according to many happy reviews—you’ll visit three carefully selected wineries, each with its own character, and end the day with a multi-course wine paired lunch.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized nature of the tour means your group gets the flexibility to customize stops, including a sparkling wine favorite like Bodega Chandon or a focus on Malbecs at Piattelli. Second, the comfort of private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed, hassle-free day, away from the crowds and self-driving worries.

A potential consideration? The full-day duration (about 8 hours) might be too long for some travelers with tight schedules or limited endurance for a day on the move. Also, while the tour is tailored, it’s worth noting that it’s popular enough that booking 24 days in advance is recommended, especially if your dates are firm.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge, couples celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who appreciates authentic, well-curated experiences where the focus is on quality rather than quantity. If you’re seeking a comfortable, informative, and taste-rich day in Mendoza, this private winery tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Fully customizable visits to top Mendoza wineries.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable local guide ensures an engaging and informative day.
• Quality Tastings: Six reserve wines plus expert-guided tastings at each stop.
• Gourmet Lunch: A multi-course meal paired with fine wines enhances the tasting experience.
• Advance Booking: Recommended booking 24 days ahead due to high demand.

In-Depth Review of the “Sip & Savor” Private Winery Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

This eight-hour tour is designed to showcase Mendoza’s best and most interesting wineries, with the flexibility to tailor your stops based on your interests. It kicks off around 9:00 am, with hotel pickup—a significant perk that eliminates the hassle of figuring out logistics in a new city.

First Stop: Bodega Chandon

If you’re a sparkling wine lover, this is the place to start. Chandon is renowned for its champagne-style sparkling wines, and the tasting here is a highlight. The tour includes about an hour on-site, with admission included, giving you the chance to sample their signature bubbly. If sparkling wine isn’t your thing, you can swap out Chandon for other notable wineries like Terrazas de los Andes, Bodeguera, or Huarpe, making this a flexible first stop.

Many reviews praise Patricia’s thoughtful planning. As one reviewer noted, she “contacted me through WhatsApp the day before and set out the timetable,” ensuring the day ran smoothly. This kind of organization is invaluable when you’re trying to make the most of a full day.

Second Stop: Piattelli Agrelo

Luján de Cuyo’s Piattelli Winery is a star for wine lovers. Surrounded by serene lakes and beautifully landscaped gardens, the setting is picturesque. Here, you’ll enjoy a premium tasting of six reserve wines, including Malbecs from both Mendoza and Salta, which is perfect if you’re keen to compare regional expressions of this iconic varietal.

The guided tour of the facilities gives insight into the winemaking process, which reviewers say is both informative and engaging. One guest shared, “We loved the way the guide shared her knowledge about the Mendoza wine region and was willing to share about Argentine culture,” making the experience more than just tastings.

Third Stop: Susana Balbo Wines

Arguably the most distinguished stop, Susana Balbo is Argentina’s first woman winemaker, and her winery is highly respected. Depending on availability, the visit might include a tasting of her exceptional wines or a gourmet lunch paired with wines. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who may want a more relaxed meal versus a straightforward tasting.

Many reviews highlight the quality of wines and the engaging guide. One reviewer mentioned, “Patricia made a very good selection of wineries and shared lots of information,” emphasizing the personalized touch that elevates this tour.

The Transportation & Group Size

The private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is a highlight, especially in Mendoza’s warm climate. This setup means you avoid crowded buses or confusing public transit, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience. The tour is exclusive to your group, which ensures a more intimate and customized experience.

The Lunch Experience

The multi-course lunch, paired with wines, is a real treat. Many reviews praise the quality and elegance of the meal, which offers a perfect break in the day’s activities. It’s a great way to deepen your appreciation of how Argentine wines and local cuisine complement each other.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

What truly shines through in reviews is the expert guidance and the stunning winery settings. Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable guides like Patricia make the experience more enriching, sharing insights about the wines, Mendoza culture, and local life. The quality of the wines—especially the reserve Malbecs—receives frequent praise for exceeding expectations.

Possible Drawbacks & Considerations

The main consideration is the duration—a full 8-hour day. While most find it worthwhile, some travelers with tight schedules or limited stamina might find it a long day. Also, since the tour sells out quickly—average booking 24 days in advance—it’s wise to plan ahead if your travel dates are fixed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore Mendoza’s top wineries without the stress of planning. It suits couples, small groups, or even solo travelers who appreciate personalized service and authentic experiences. If you’re eager to learn about Argentine wines, especially Malbec and sparkling varieties, and enjoy a luxurious yet relaxed day, this tour is well-priced for the value of the curated visits and gourmet meal.

Travelers who value local guides sharing insightful stories and who prefer comfort and flexibility over large group tourswill find this experience particularly satisfying. It’s perfect for those wanting an **intimate, high-quality introduction to Mendoza’s wine culture.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of $249, this private Mendoza winery tour offers exceptional value. You get customizable visits to premium wineries, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious, wine-paired lunch that elevates the entire experience. The private transportation and hotel pickup make it convenient and comfortable, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the wines and scenery.

If you’re a wine lover seeking quality over quantity, and value personalized attention, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s especially suited for those who want a beyond-the-basics experience—an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Argentine wines in a relaxed, friendly environment.

While it’s a full day, most reviews affirm that the experience is well-paced and rewarding. As one guest said, “The whole day was a wonderful experience,” and many have returned home with stories, photos, and a newfound appreciation for Mendoza’s wine scene.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What is the tour price?
The cost is $249 per person, which includes tastings, lunch, and private transportation.

What wineries are visited?
You can visit Bodega Chandon, Piattelli Agrelo, and Susana Balbo Wines, with options to customize stops like Chandon for sparkling wine or other wineries based on your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am with hotel pickup.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour features a multi-course lunch paired with wines, which many reviews describe as both elegant and delicious.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely, the tour includes air-conditioned private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, given the high demand and an average booking window of 24 days, booking ahead is strongly recommended.

This private Mendoza winery tour offers a well-rounded, authentic, and enjoyable way to experience Argentina’s famous wine country. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply eager to indulge in Malbecs and sparkling wines in stunning settings, this trip delivers on both quality and comfort.