A Unique Tasting of Wine in Argentina

Known as Los Caminos del Vino—the Wine Roads—the Mendoza area of Argentina boasts over 600 wineries, or bodegas, that produce some of the world’s finest wines. Whether you love Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Semillon, Lambec, or Merlot, you’ll be enchanted by the spectacular views of the Andes Mountains as you tour the wine country.  

Where to taste . . .

Andeluna Cellars

Set against a majestic backdrop of the Andes, Andeluna Cellars has perfected the art of making wine. Italians founded the winery in the 19^th Century, and these wine pioneers brought a passion and romance that you can still taste in their wines today. Melding traditional French grape varieties such as malbec and merlot with state-of-the-art techniques, Andeluna Cellars creates delicious, robust wines you won’t find anywhere else.

 

Courtesy Andeluna Cellars

Bodega Salentein

Much more than just a fine winery, Bodega Salentein is practically its own self-contained village. The Posada Inn and the Killka art gallery sit near the cross-shaped bodega, which is reminiscent of a Jesuit temple. Enjoy Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc in the tasting room, which features a beautiful hand-painted ceiling. The Primus Room is a self-contained winery that produces the Bodega’s exclusive Primus wines, created from only the finest grapes.

Ruca Malén

The legend behind the name Ruca Malén goes back to the Mapuche, whose women used to walk looking down at the ground to avoid the piercing look of one particular god. One day, a woman dared to look up, and she fell in love with him. When he left, he gave her a home, Ruca Malén, and nectar that she could drink and re-experience the joy they shared. This wine pays homage to that legend.

Ruca Malén creates Champagne, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and its tasting room features a unique wine blending game: each person creates a different blend of wine to share with the group, who blind tastes the wines and votes for the best one.

Where to stay . . .

Cavas Wine Lodge

Just a few minutes south of Mendoza, this lovely estate sits in a 35-acre vineyard and provides elegant service with lavish comfort. Its spa features wine treatments, a gym with a breathtaking view of the Andes, and a relaxing Jacuzzi. Its restaurant changes the menu every three months to take advantage of the fresh seasonal ingredients. Private wine tasting can be arranged, and you’ll have over 250 wines to choose from. 

Park Hyatt Mendoza

With luxurious, spacious rooms with stunning views the city, the Park Hyatt is the perfect place to relax after a day in the vineyards. You’ll have several restaurants to choose from, and whether you prefer a rejuvenating spa treatment or the excitement of the casino, you’ll love the variety of activities and amenities.

 

Courtesy of MacAllenBrothers

Experience the magic of Salta

For an alternative wine tasting experience comparable to the Mendoza region, try Salta’s Wine Route. It has more diversity in landscapes than Mendoza, and its high-altitude wine is a special treat. Salta’s traditional pubs and picturesque villages are charming, and vineyards like Estancia Colome produce specialty wines like Torrontés that please the most exacting wine connoisseur.  

For a truly luxurious stay in the Salta region, try the House of Jasmines, formerly an elegant estate home with all the amenities you would expect—terraces, horses, and a spa—amid a magnificent view of the Andes and the fragrance of jasmine, of course. 

Which Argentinian wines would you like to try?