Tastings and lunch in Maipú! One of the oldest regions of Mendoza

A Taste of Mendoza’s Oldest Region: Tastings and Lunch in Maipú

If you’re looking for a full day of authentic Mendoza flavors, this private tour through Maipú, one of the region’s oldest wine-producing areas, might just be your ideal escape. For $290 per person, you’ll spend around 7 to 9 hours exploring three distinguished wineries and olive farms, enjoying tastings, and ending with a leisurely gourmet lunch. With pickup in a high-end vehicle and personalized attention, this experience promises both comfort and an insider’s view into one of Argentina’s most celebrated culinary regions.

What we love about this tour is how it balances education with indulgence. The first highlight is the guided tour of Bodega Benegas, where you’ll learn about traditional and modern wine production methods amid beautiful historic surroundings. The second is the visit to LAUR Olivícola, a family-run olive farm offering a fascinating look at olive oil and balsamic vinegar production, a key activity in Maipú alongside viticulture. Lastly, the lunch at Casa El Enemigo offers a chance to relax, savor delicious food paired with wines, and soak in the atmospheric winery setting.

One possible consideration is the pace—you’ll be busy with multiple stops, so if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day, this might feel a bit full. Also, since the tour is highly customizable, it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences and enjoy good food and wine with a touch of history. This tour is especially appealing to those eager to combine learning with tasting and who want a comprehensive look at Mendoza’s traditional agricultural roots.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with private transfers and flexible scheduling
• Expert-guided visits to renowned wineries and olive farms
• Gourmet lunch with wine pairings in a scenic winery setting
• Authentic insights into Mendoza’s long-standing winemaking and olive oil traditions
• Comfortable transportation, ensuring a stress-free day
• Ideal for food and wine lovers seeking a meaningful, immersive experience

In-Depth Review of the Maipú Tasting and Lunch Tour

The Itinerary: A Well-Rounded Day in Mendoza’s Oldest Wine Region

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:00 am, with pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. From the start, the tour’s private nature makes it clear that your experience will be tailored to your interests and pace—no crowded bus or rushed timetable here. The first stop is Bodega Benegas, a historic winery where you’ll get a detailed look at their production facilities. Our guide, Marcelo, received high praise for his expert knowledge and personalized approach—”He tailored our tour to our needs and made it a point to rearrange things according to our timetable,” noted one reviewer. Expect a 1.5-hour visit that includes a comprehensive cellar tour and tastings, where you’ll learn about both traditional and modern wine-making techniques. The inclusion of the admission ticket assures no surprises or extra costs.

Next, you’ll visit LAUR Olivícola, a family-owned olive farm that has been producing high-quality oils and balsamic vinegars. This stop offers a different perspective—learning about olive oil, which is as significant in Maipú as wine. Expect a 75-minute walk through the facilities, where you’ll discover the nuances of olive and vinegar production. One reviewer emphasized the “unique flavors of the oils and especially the balsamic,” highlighting how this visit adds depth to the Mendoza experience.

The final part of the day is all about lunch at Casa El Enemigo. This is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to relax and enjoy a multi-course experience with several food options designed to suit all tastes. The lunch lasts around three hours, giving you plenty of time to savor each bite and sip. The wines served during lunch are paired thoughtfully with the food, enhancing the flavors and making for a memorable dining experience.

Post-lunch, depending on availability, you may have the opportunity to take a more in-depth tour of Casa El Enemigo’s facilities and learn about its history—without additional tastings. This optional element adds educational value for those interested in the winery’s background.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in high-end vehicles, ensuring comfort and style, especially after a morning of tastings. The tour is strictly private, which means only your group participates—perfect for those who prefer an intimate, tailored experience. The flexibility of the schedule is a major plus, with the guide willing to adjust plans to fit your interests and timing.

The Experience: What You’ll Actually Feel

Throughout the day, you’ll notice how well the tour combines education with enjoyment. The guided tours of the wineries and olive farms are engaging without being overwhelming, offering insights into Argentinian traditions and innovations. The tastings are described as excellent, with some reviewers mentioning that the wine selection is particularly noteworthy.

The lunch is another highlight, with many praising the quality and variety of the food, as well as the attentive service. This is a time to unwind, chat, and truly appreciate Mendoza’s culinary offerings.

Authenticity and Value

This tour stands out for its authenticity. You’re not just visiting commercial wineries; you’re exploring places that have maintained their traditions and produce high-quality products. The reviews underscore the superb wine selection and the opportunity to learn directly from knowledgeable guides. The price might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the private transportation, guided tours, tastings, and gourmet lunch, it offers good value for a comprehensive, hassle-free day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits food and wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge of Mendoza’s agricultural traditions. It’s also ideal for travelers who value personalized service and prefer a flexible schedule. If you’re interested in learning about olive oil in addition to wine, or want a balanced mix of education, tasting, and relaxation in a scenic setting, this tour ticks all those boxes. Reviewers emphasize Marcelo’s tailored approach, which makes it especially appealing for those wanting a private, curated experience.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a meaningful day in Mendoza’s Maipú region, this tour delivers a fantastic combination of history, flavors, and scenery. The visit to Benegas offers a glimpse into traditional winecraft, while the olive farm adds a different dimension to your culinary adventure. The lunch at Casa El Enemigo provides a delicious, relaxing conclusion with excellent food and wine.

The flexibility, private setting, and knowledgeable guides make this a standout choice for those who want to avoid cookie-cutter tours and instead enjoy an experience tailored just for them. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates good wine, fine food, and authentic stories behind Argentina’s rural treasures.

In the end, you’ll walk away not only with a full belly and a glass of excellent wine but also with a richer understanding of how Mendoza’s traditions and terroir shape its celebrated produce. If you’re after a intimate, educational, and flavorful adventure, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves tastings, it’s primarily designed for adults who appreciate wine and olive oil.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers visits to three different locations, tastings of wine, oils, and balsamic, a gourmet lunch with wine pairings, private transportation, snacks during transfer, and bottled water.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes roughly 7 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending in the late afternoon or early evening.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible—your guide can adjust the schedule or focus areas based on your interests.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
Transfers are in high-end, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-hour gourmet lunch with wines is part of the experience, giving you time to relax and enjoy the meal.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its personalized nature, expert guides like Marcelo, and the high quality of tastings and food make it a top choice for an authentic Mendoza experience.