Trapiche and Lunch The Enemy (Michelin) + Private transportation

An Authentic Mendoza Wine Day: Trapiche and Casa Vigil with Lunch

If you’re visiting Mendoza and craving a well-rounded experience of Argentine wine culture, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated combination of two iconic wineries, Trapiche and Casa Vigil. For around $330 per person, you’ll enjoy private transportation, guided tours, tastings, and a gourmet three-course lunch—making it a solid choice for wine lovers who want both tradition and innovation.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances historic and modern winery visits with a memorable meal. The personalized transport adds a relaxed, hassle-free element, allowing you to focus on savoring each moment. Plus, the attention to detail at Casa Vigil—led by renowned winemaker Alejandro Vigil—means you’ll get a taste of Argentina’s more artisanal, biodynamic wine scene.

A potential drawback? The tour duration is just about five hours, so it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re a dedicated wine enthusiast or craving a longer immersion, this might feel a little brisk. Still, for those seeking a high-quality, guided experience with excellent value, it hits many marks.

This tour will best suit travelers who appreciate knowledgable guides, quality food and wine pairing, and a good mix of tradition and innovation. If you’re keen on trying some of Argentina’s best wines, learning their stories, and enjoying a luxurious meal, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Premium wineries: Visits to both Trapiche and Casa Vigil showcase Mendoza’s diverse wine heritage.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable hosts, including Marina and Alejandro Vigil, enhance the experience.
• Gourmet lunch: A carefully crafted three-step menu paired with Casa Vigil’s wines offers excellent value.
• Private transport: Comfort and convenience with air-conditioned vehicle and personalized service.
• Authentic experiences: Tasting wines in elegant, innovative environments makes each sip memorable.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

A Deeper Look at the Mendoza Wine Experience

When planning a day in Mendoza, wine tours are often the top priority, and this particular journey hits many of the right notes. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about the stories, the craftsmanship, and the landscape that make Mendoza a world-famous wine region.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a private pick-up, which is a real plus. Anyone who has experienced group tours knows how unpredictable the timing can be—this private arrangement means you’re on your schedule. Your driver will whisk you away from your hotel, setting the tone for a relaxed, personalized experience.

First stop: Casa Vigil — a boutique winery led by Alejandro Vigil. Here, the focus is on biodynamics and terroir, producing organic grapes and artisanal wines. Visitors love how guides like Marina bring the process alive, sharing insights on the unique characteristics of Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Bonarda. As one reviewer puts it: “Casa Vigil is truly remarkable! Great food and excellent wines! My favorite in Mendoza.” Expect a two-hour visit that includes a tour through vineyards, a look at the winemaking process, and a tasting of their outstanding wines. For wine connoisseurs, the emphasis on biodynamics and organic grapes offers a glimpse into Mendoza’s innovative side.

Next, you’ll head to Bodega Trapiche, a historic giant founded in 1883. Known for its diverse wine portfolio, Trapiche is especially famous for its Malbecs, but also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Torrontés. Visitors consistently praise the guided tour, with one saying, “Trapiche is wonderful! The hostess Marina was very kind and knew a lot about their history and their wine.”

The wine tasting at Trapiche typically involves sampling 4 different wines, including whites and reds, giving you a good sense of Mendoza’s versatility. The experience here is more commercial than Casa Vigil, but no less valuable—especially if you’re interested in Argentina’s most iconic wines.

The Highlight: The Lunch at Casa Vigil

The tour’s star is the lunch at Casa Vigil’s restaurant—a beautifully set, elegant environment that balances sophistication with comfort. The three-step menu is curated to complement the wines of the “3 Enemies” line, including Chardonnay, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food and the harmonious pairing, describing it as “delicious” and “marvelous.” One traveler notes, “The food was very good, and the service was excellent,” which speaks to the overall high standard.

This is more than just a meal; it’s a sensory experience that elevates the entire day. The setting, combined with attentive service and excellent wines, makes this meal stand out as a true highlight.

Returning to Your Hotel

After the meal, your private driver will take you back to your accommodation, ending the tour on a relaxed note. The total duration is about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that fits well into a busy Mendoza itinerary.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. For example, “Javier, the driver, was awesome and very cooperative,” and “The guide at Trapiche was very kind and knew a lot about their history.” This personalized attention elevates the experience from a simple tasting to a memorable journey through Mendoza’s wine culture.

The value for money is also a recurring theme. Travelers feel that the price of $330 is justified by the quality of wineries, tastings, lunch, and private transport. One review states, “The experience was worth every cent,” emphasizing how well this tour balances cost and quality.

Some mention minor setbacks, like a miscommunication about pick-up times or the visit to Trapiche feeling more commercial. However, these are outweighed by the overall positivity—especially the delicious food and the chance to taste exclusive wines you might not find elsewhere.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Book in advance: On average, this tour is booked about 35 days ahead, so plan early if you’re set on this experience.
• Dress comfortably: Mendoza’s wineries can be quite elegant, but casual smart attire is appropriate.
• Bring your ID: Remember, alcoholic beverages are only served to adults.
• Allocate free time after: If you want to explore more wineries or enjoy Mendoza’s city vibe, plan accordingly.
• Expect a relaxed pace: With only five hours, there’s enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a curated, high-quality wine day with expert guides and excellent food. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer private transportation over group buses, enjoy learning about biodynamics and wine history, and value gourmet meals paired with fine wines. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Mendoza’s best, this is a practical, enjoyable choice.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour for a full refund?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all wine enthusiasts?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews indicate that guides are knowledgeable, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or an expert.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, visits and tastings at both wineries, and the gourmet lunch, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

How long does each winery visit last?
About two hours at Casa Vigil and two hours at Trapiche, with additional time for lunch and transportation.

What types of wines will I taste?
At Casa Vigil, expect biodynamic wines from varieties like Malbec and Cabernet Franc. At Trapiche, you’ll sample a range of reds and whites, including multiple Malbecs.

Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
The itinerary is fairly structured, but since it’s private transport, your driver may accommodate slight timing adjustments.

Final Words

If you’re after a well-rounded, memorable Mendoza wine day, this tour offers a fine mix of history, innovation, stunning scenery, and delicious food. It balances guided insight with personal comfort, making it an ideal choice for those who want to understand Argentina’s wine heritage without spending an entire day in the vineyards.

It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate good value for money, want to enjoy artisanal and iconic wines, and love a gourmet meal paired perfectly with their tastings. While it’s a faster-paced experience, it packs in enough variety and quality to leave a lasting impression. For a taste of Mendoza’s best, this tour delivers on many levels—an authentic, enjoyable, and educational wine adventure.