Experience the best of Mendoza’s wine and gastronomy with a full-day private tour that takes you from the renowned Salentein Winery to a gourmet lunch at Ruda Cocina. For $260 per person, this 7-hour journey offers a perfect combination of world-class wine tasting, spectacular mountain scenery, and creative regional cuisine, all with the convenience of included transportation. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience is tailored for those who want to savor Mendoza’s rich wine culture without the crowds or rushed schedules.

What we really love about this tour is the chance to visit Salentein’s impressive estate, renowned for its architecture and breathtaking views of the Andes — a photo opportunity in itself. The second highlight is the lunch at Ruda Cocina, where creative dishes are paired with local wines, offering a genuine taste of Mendoza’s culinary talent. One consideration is that booking is recommended at least two weeks in advance, so planning ahead is essential. This tour suits travelers eager for an in-depth, relaxed experience that combines wine, scenery, and superb food in a single day.

Key Points

High-quality experience with a private and personalized feel.
Stunning landscapes and views that are a feast for the eyes.
Tasting wines from one of the top wineries in Uco Valley.
Gourmet lunch at a highly-rated restaurant showcasing local ingredients.
Convenient transfer included, easing logistics.
Ideal for wine lovers and those craving authentic regional flavors.

An Authentic Day in Mendoza’s Uco Valley

When you think of Mendoza, images of endless vineyards and the majestic Andes probably come to mind. This tour captures exactly that—blending the natural beauty of the Uco Valley with the sophisticated pleasures of wine tasting and fine dining. At a price of $260, it’s an experience that balances quality and value, especially considering the private transport, winery visit, tastings, and gourmet meal included.

We found that this experience is particularly well-suited for those who want to go beyond the typical group tour — it’s private, intimate, and flexible enough to give you a real taste of Mendoza’s best. If you’re a wine enthusiast or a lover of good food paired with stunning views, then this day will likely resonate deeply with you.

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Why We Like This Tour

First, the visit to Salentein Winery is a highlight. Located in Tupungato, it’s a winery that pairs excellence in wines with striking architecture and a setting at the foot of the Andes. The wines here aren’t just good—they’re praised internationally for their quality and character. Visiting Salentein gives you a chance to learn about Argentine wine making, walk through beautiful vineyards, and enjoy tastings in a setting that’s as much about the view as the vino.

Second, the lunch at Ruda Cocina elevates the day. This restaurant is celebrated for its creative approach to local ingredients, combining regional flavors with international influences. The menu is varied, and the wine pairing is thoughtfully curated, making it clear that they focus on quality and presentation. As one reviewer put it, the environment itself adds to the experience: “Incredible environment, very worth the walk and the wine tasting.” The views of the mountains from Ruda make the meal memorable even before the first bite.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Bodega Salentein
Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation, followed by a scenic drive into the Uco Valley. Once at Salentein, you’ll be immersed in the estate’s impressive architecture—think modern design mixed with traditional vineyard elements. The winery is more than just a production site; it’s a visual masterpiece with panoramic views that seem to stretch forever.

You’ll spend about three hours here, enjoying a guided tour that covers the wine-making process, the history of the estate, and perhaps a little insight into the different varietals they produce. Of course, the tastings are the main attraction: from Malbec, Argentina’s flagship grape, to Chardonnay and Merlot, all praised for their distinctiveness. The reviews highlight the quality, with one stating, “We had an awesome tour and tasting with Victoria,” emphasizing the personal touch of knowledgeable guides.

Stop 2: Ruda Cocina
After the winery, a private transfer whisks you to Ruda Cocina, a restaurant that’s celebrated for its innovative cuisine. The setting is at the foot of the Andes, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet refined. The four-hour lunch allows for a leisurely experience, where each course is paired with local wines that complement the flavors beautifully.

Expect to enjoy creative dishes that highlight regional ingredients—think premium meats, fresh vegetables, and seasonal produce—crafted by chefs aiming to surprise and delight. As one reviewer noted, “Wonderful cuisine, amazing landscape, stunning walk,” the environment at Ruda adds a sense of tranquility and awe to the meal.

Practical Details That Make a Difference

The entire experience is private, meaning you won’t be part of a large group, giving you the flexibility to ask questions, linger over tastings, and enjoy each stop at your own pace. Transportation is included, removing the hassle of navigating Mendoza’s roads or booking separate taxis. The tour operates Monday mornings, and booking at least two weeks in advance is suggested, especially during peak season.

The cost of $260 includes all transportation, winery visit, tastings, and lunch, making it a good value considering the personalized service and the quality of experiences. The tour’s duration of approximately seven hours means you have plenty of time to savor each moment without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Reviews demonstrate that travelers value the combination of scenic beauty and high-quality wine. One reviewer described it as “A must-visit winery/restaurant in Mendoza,” lauding the vineyard’s beauty and the tour guide’s expertise. Others appreciated the “incredible environment,” noting that the infrastructure of the vineyard is excellent and the environment is worth the walk and tastings.

The focus on regional wines and local ingredients ensures you get an authentic taste of Mendoza. The blend of art, architecture, and landscape at Salentein, combined with the creative cuisine at Ruda, encapsulates the region’s culinary and viticultural excellence.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates spectacular scenery and exceptional wines, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a relaxed yet enriching experience — a good mix of guided education, scenic vistas, and fine dining. It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting to deepen their knowledge with a personal touch and travelers who want to enjoy Mendoza’s best without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

This experience also suits those who prefer small, private tours over crowded group outings, giving you the freedom to ask questions and explore at your own pace. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or a small family, it’s an intimate way to spend a day immersed in Mendoza’s wine and culinary culture.

The Sum Up

This private tour combining Salentein Winery and a gourmet lunch at Ruda Cocina offers a well-rounded, memorable day for anyone interested in Mendoza’s wine and food scene. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Argentine wines, breathtaking views of the Andes, and a belly full of delicious regional fare. The experience is flexible, personalized, and includes all the logistics, making it a stress-free way to enjoy Mendoza’s highlights.

For those who value quality over quantity, and authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours, this day will deliver far more than just tasting wines—it’s about soaking in the scenery, savoring the flavors, and creating memories in a landscape that’s as inspiring as the wines themselves.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is included in the price, making it easy and comfortable to visit both locations without worrying about logistics.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What wines will I taste at Salentein?
You’ll likely sample a variety of Salentein’s wines, including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay, praised for their quality and distinctiveness.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private tour, so you can usually ask your guide to tailor the experience slightly, especially if you have particular preferences.

Is the lunch at Ruda Cocina included?
Yes, lunch is included and paired with local wines, offering a gourmet experience at a top-rated restaurant with mountain views.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you might do some walking around the vineyards and estate.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least 14 days ahead is suggested, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.

This tour offers an elegant mix of Mendoza’s top wines, scenic beauty, and gourmet cuisine, perfect for travelers seeking a deep, enjoyable taste of Argentina’s best.