Mendoza is home to over 1,200 wineries, from century-old family establishments to ultramodern projects with cutting-edge architecture. The region produces 70% of all Argentine wine and is globally recognized for its Malbec, though Cabernet Sauvignon, Bonarda and high-altitude whites like Torrontes and Chardonnay also excel. With three distinct wine regions -- Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo and Valle de Uco -- each offering a different character and price point, there is a perfect winery experience for every traveler.
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | 8300 km | 11 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Madrid (MAD) | 10200 km | 13 h + 2 h layover | — | — |
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | 1050 km | 1 h 45 | 14 h | 11 h |
| Santiago (SCL) | 370 km | 55 min | 6–8 h | 5 h |
| Córdoba | 670 km | 1 h 10 | 9 h | 7 h |
| San Juan | 170 km | — | 2 h 30 | 2 h |
| Bariloche (BRC) | 1140 km | 1 h 50 | 18 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 18° / 33°C | 25 mm | Hot & dry summer | |
| Feb | 17° / 31°C | 30 mm | ||
| Mar | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | Harvest season | |
| Apr | 10° / 23°C | 15 mm | ||
| May | 5° / 18°C | 8 mm | ||
| Jun | 2° / 14°C | 5 mm | ||
| Jul | 2° / 14°C | 8 mm | Ski Las Leñas | |
| Aug | 4° / 17°C | 8 mm | ||
| Sep | 7° / 21°C | 12 mm | Vineyard bloom | |
| Oct | 11° / 25°C | 15 mm | ||
| Nov | 14° / 28°C | 20 mm | ||
| Dec | 17° / 31°C | 25 mm |
Visiting wineries in Mendoza is accessible to all budgets: from free tours at historic Maipu wineries to luxury wine-paired lunches in Valle de Uco. In this guide we present the best wineries across all three regions, with updated prices, how to book and the best ways to get there.
Quick Reference: Mendoza Winery Prices
- Total wineries in Mendoza: Over 1,200
- Wineries open to tourism: Approximately 150
- Basic tasting: USD 10-25
- Premium tasting: USD 25-50
- Wine-paired lunch: USD 30-80
- Group tour (2 wineries): From USD 36 (Civitatis)
- Private tour Lujan de Cuyo: From USD 465/group
- Bike rental Maipu: From USD 10/day
- Advance booking: Recommended 1-2 weeks ahead
Lujan de Cuyo -- Premium Malbec Country
Catena Zapata
Catena Zapata is the most iconic winery in Argentina and a pilgrimage for every wine lover. Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena, the winery revolutionized Argentine winemaking by demonstrating that high-altitude vineyards produce world-class Malbec. Its Mayan pyramid-inspired building is one of the most photographed structures in Mendoza. The classic tasting (4 wines, approximately USD 30) takes 60-90 minutes and includes the underground barrel room. The Catena Institute experience features a vertical tasting of Nicolas Catena Zapata, one of Argentina's highest-rated wines.
- Location: Cobos s/n, Agrelo, Lujan de Cuyo (30 km from Mendoza, 35 min)
- Tasting: From USD 30 | Hours: Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-1
- Booking: Required, online or by phone
Ruca Malen
Famous for its 5-course wine-paired lunch (USD 65), one of the best culinary experiences in Mendoza. The chef designs the menu around seasonal ingredients, each course matched with a different Ruca Malen wine. The Andes view from the dining room is spectacular. Book at least 1 week in advance -- it fills up fast. The standard tasting (from USD 20) is also excellent.
- Location: Route 7 km 1059, Agrelo, Lujan de Cuyo (28 km from Mendoza)
- Lunch: USD 65 | Tasting: From USD 20
- Booking: Required for lunch, recommended for tastings
Chandon
Argentina's premier sparkling wine producer. The traditional method sparkling wine tasting (USD 15-25) is a refreshing change from all the Malbec. Beautiful gardens, a relaxed atmosphere and an excellent shop. Their Extra Brut and Rose are among the best sparkling wines in South America.
Valle de Uco -- World's Best
Zuccardi Piedra Infinita
Named the best winery in the world by World's Best Vineyards in 2019, 2020 and 2021. The architecture is breathtaking -- a building carved into the landscape -- and the single-parcel wines are extraordinary. Tasting from USD 25-50. The restaurant serves a tasting menu (USD 80+) that is worth every penny. The terrace view of the Tupungato volcano is unforgettable. Book the restaurant 2+ weeks ahead.
Bodega Salentein
A stunning Dutch-owned winery with a contemporary art gallery (Killka) and excellent wines. The tasting (USD 20) is generous, the restaurant serves great food with vineyard views, and the art space is free to visit. Their cross-shaped barrel room is architecturally remarkable. One of the most complete winery experiences in Mendoza.
Maipu -- Best for Budget Travelers
Trapiche
One of Argentina's oldest and largest wineries (founded 1883). The tasting from USD 12 is excellent value, with a tour through the historic winery, enormous oak tanks and underground cellar. Beautiful grounds and a solid introduction to Argentine wines. Easy to reach by bike from central Maipu -- no advance booking needed most of the year.
Bodega Lopez
A family-owned winery since 1898 with impressive underground cellars featuring century-old barrels. The tasting (USD 10) is one of the best values in Mendoza. A must for history lovers who want to understand the Italian immigrant roots of Argentine winemaking.
Bike Tour Through Maipu Wineries
The Maipu bike circuit is one of the most iconic experiences in Mendoza and the most fun, affordable way to visit wineries. The typical route starts at rental shops on Ozamis street (near Maipu's main plaza) and takes you on a 15-20 km circuit through flat, safe rural roads.
During the ride you can stop at 4-6 wineries (including Trapiche, Familia Di Tommaso, Vistandes and Lopez), plus olive oil factories like Olivicola Laur and the chocolate shop La Abuela Goye. Tastings on the circuit are free or cost USD 5-15.
Bike Tour Tips
- Start early (10 AM) to take advantage of the cooler hours
- Bring sunscreen, a hat and water -- the Mendoza sun is intense
- Have lunch at one of the circuit wineries (Casa el Enemigo has excellent options)
- Avoid Mondays -- many Maipu wineries are closed
- If you overdid the tastings, most rental shops offer a pickup truck service
- Rental: from USD 10/day with lock, helmet and circuit map
How to Visit Wineries
- Group tour (from USD 36): Easiest option. Civitatis tours include transport, guide and 2 winery visits with tastings. Best for solo travelers and couples.
- Private tour (from USD 465/group): Customized itinerary, more relaxed pace. Great for groups of 3-4.
- Hire a remis (USD 80-120/day): A local driver takes you wherever you want. You build your own itinerary. The driver waits while you taste.
- Bike in Maipu (USD 10/day): The most fun way. Flat terrain, short distances, 4-6 wineries in a day.
- Wine Road bus (USD 34): Hop-on hop-off bus through the main wine route. Good for independent travelers.
