Wines and Sparkling: A Taste of Mendoza’s Finest

This 4-hour guided tour takes you into the heart of Mendoza’s renowned wine country, focusing on two carefully selected wineries in the Lujan de Cuyo region. For $162 per person, you’ll explore vineyards, learn about wine production, and sample some of Argentina’s best premium wines and sparkling wines. Guides—like Juan, who’s praised for being friendly and knowledgeable—will accompany you through each step, sharing insider secrets and tips on how to taste wine like a pro.

Two things we love about this experience are the stunning backdrop of the Andes during tastings—truly the kind of scenery that elevates a wine journey—and the chance to visit small, top-rated wineries that aren’t just tourist traps but places where you get authentic, high-quality experiences. The intimate group size, capped at 18, means you’ll have space to ask questions and really absorb the details.

One caveat to keep in mind is that this is a tasting-focused tour; it doesn’t include lunch or any meals. If you’re expecting a full day or a hearty meal, you’ll want to plan accordingly. This tour is best suited for those new to Mendoza wines or travelers who want a high-quality, relaxed introduction with expert insights, without the fuss of a large group or complicated logistics.

Key Points

Authentic Visits: You’ll visit two top-rated wineries in Lujan de Cuyo, known for their exceptional wines and beautiful landscapes.
Expert Guidance: Guided tastings led by knowledgeable professionals help you understand the nuances of premium and sparkling wines.
Scenic Views: The Andes serve as a stunning backdrop, making each tasting a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Small Group Experience: Max 18 people, allowing for personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Flexible and Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Mendoza or Maipú, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Cost-Effective Quality: At $162, this tour offers a great balance of quality, scenery, and expert insight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Mendoza Wines and Sparkling Tour

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Starting Off: Convenience and Comfort

We appreciated the hotel pickup in Mendoza or Maipú, which removes the hassle of figuring out transportation. You’ll be greeted by a friendly driver in a comfortable van, with shared group sizes kept small for a more personal experience. The drive to Lujan de Cuyo takes around 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

The Wineries: Two Distinct Experiences in One Tour

The core of this tour is visiting two wineries, each with its own personality and specialties. The itinerary allows for an hour at each, with a 30-minute transit in between, giving you enough time to soak in the surroundings without feeling rushed.

While the specific wineries aren’t named in the package, options like Norton, Chandon, Terrazas de los Andes, Cruzat, Las Perdices, Foster Lorca, A16, and Renacer are mentioned as possibilities. These are all well-regarded establishments that offer a mix of traditional and innovative approaches to winemaking.

What You’ll Learn and Taste

Your guides will lead you through vineyard explorations, explaining the production process and the unique characteristics of Mendoza’s terroir. Expect to learn how sparkling wines are made—very different from still wines—and why Mendoza is a prime destination for bubbly production.

The tasting sessions are where the magic happens. You’ll sample premium wines and sparkling wines, with guides helping you identify flavors, aromas, and textures. The reviews show that many guests, like Jo, enjoyed tasting large glasses of wine, which indicates generous pours and a relaxed atmosphere.

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The Scenic Panorama: Andes as a Backdrop

What sets this tour apart is the spectacular scenery. As you sip on your wines, the Andes mountain range looms majestically in the background, framing your experience with breathtaking views. We loved the way the landscape added a sense of place to each sip, making the tasting more memorable.

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Returning and Reflecting

After the second tasting, you’ll head back to Mendoza, arriving in the early afternoon. This timing makes it a great half-day outing—leaving you plenty of time to explore more of Mendoza’s sights or enjoy a leisurely dinner.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is ideal for first-timers to Mendoza wine, thanks to its focus on quality over quantity and the presence of experts who demystify the tasting process. It’s also suited for those wanting a relaxed, small-group environment where they can ask questions and learn about premium and sparkling wines in a scenic setting.

Wine connoisseurs looking for an in-depth or extensive experience might want to consider longer or more specialized tours, but for value and accessible wine education, this hits the mark.

Additional Details That Make a Difference

Price and Value: At $162, the tour offers an excellent cost-to-quality ratio, especially considering the personalized guide attention and scenic visits.
Group Size: Small groups of up to 18 people create an intimate atmosphere, fostering easier conversation and more tailored guidance.
Transportation: The included transport is smooth and reliable, with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting points, saving you from navigating unfamiliar roads.
Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan with confidence.
No Meals Included: Remember, this is a tasting-focused tour—you’ll want to seek out lunch afterward or bring snacks if you’re hungry.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re new to Mendoza wines and want a balanced, informative, and scenic introduction, this tour is perfect. It’s also well-suited for small groups looking for a relaxed experience with expert guides. Fans of sparkling wines will find this especially appealing, as Mendoza’s sparkling wine scene is growing and offers some fantastic surprises.

Travelers who prefer a structured, half-day outing that combines scenery, education, and tasting without the hassle of planning will enjoy this experience. Its moderate price point makes it a good choice for those seeking quality without a hefty cost.

FAQs

What wineries will I visit?
While specific wineries aren’t named, the experience includes visits to two top-rated wineries in the northern Mendoza area, likely including renowned options like Norton, Chandon, or Terrazas de los Andes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a van transfer, with pickup and drop-off from any hotel in Mendoza or Maipú, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is each wine tasting?
Each winery visit includes about an hour for tasting, allowing plenty of time to enjoy and ask questions, with 30-minute transit breaks in between.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind to book early.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID (a copy is fine), and note that bags aren’t allowed at the wineries, so pack light.

Is this suitable for someone with limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking through vineyards and winery facilities, it’s generally accessible, but it’s best to check with the provider if mobility is a concern.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. If you want to eat, plan to do so afterward in Mendoza or bring some snacks.

The Wines and Sparkling tour offers a well-balanced, scenic, and educational taste of Mendoza’s top wineries. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers looking to dip their toes into Argentina’s celebrated wine scene, especially if they appreciate intimate settings, expert guides, and stunning mountain views. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a casual wine enthusiast, this tour delivers good value and memorable experiences.