Top 9 Wineries in Mendoza You Must Visit

1- Zuccardi Winery

Zuccardi Winery, a unique and special place, is a family-owned winery and one of the most respected and innovative in the country, known for its focus on terroir and sustainability. It was built in 2013 and inaugurated in 2016. The building is a representation of the mountain, which defines both the climate and soils of the region.

It was built with natural elements, using local stones that are round, white, and limestone. It’s made of concrete from the outside in, from the stone walls to the epoxy-free concrete vats where the wines are produced.

The vats and amphoras are the result of years of experimentation in the search for the ideal vessel, eventually leading to a trunk-conical shape that allows for a more natural process in working with the musts and wines.

The winery has three main estates in:

• Maipú
• Uco Valley
• Patagonia

Each estate has its own microclimate and unique soil conditions, allowing for the production of a wide range of wines, from classic Malbec to more experimental blends.

Some of the most popular wines are:

• Zuccardi Santa Julia Varietals
• Zuccardi Piedra Infinita Cabernet Sauvignon
• Zuccardi Q Malbec

They have received significant recognitions, such as the award for Best New World Winery in 2022 by the prestigious American magazine Wine Enthusiast, ranking as the most well-known winery outside of the United States and Europe.

Zuccardi is strongly committed to sustainability, using solar energy to power its operations, recycling water and waste. They are also highly focused on biodiversity, having planted over 100,000 native trees on their properties.

Zuccardi produces award-winning wines and is a popular tourist destination. The winery offers guided tours and tastings, as well as a restaurant and a shop.

The restaurant, “Piedra Infinita,” opened its doors in March 2016. Located in Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley, in front of the majestic Andes Mountains, it has a capacity for 50 guests. Visitors can enjoy a four-course menu made with regional products and gourmet flair, paired with wines from the house.

It is open from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Sunday, for lunch service. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, it opens at 8:00 p.m. for dinner service. We recommend reserving in advance to secure your spot.

For tours and tastings, visitors can explore the winery spaces as well as the vineyards, discovering the characteristics and specific features of the different soils that give the wines their identity.

Tourism: Open Monday to Sunday. Hours for tours and tastings: 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. All programs require prior reservation.

2- Bianchi Winery

Bianchi Winery is a family-owned winery that embodies values of tradition, quality, prestige, innovation, and modernity in Argentine winemaking, always maintaining excellence in all their products.

Located in the historic region of San Rafael and the Uco Valley in Mendoza, Bianchi Winery is considered Argentina’s heritage winery, known worldwide for its long history of producing excellent wines and sparkling wines.

The story began in 1928 when Valentín Bianchi achieved one of his biggest dreams: owning a vineyard and opening a winery, which he named “El Chiche,” meaning “the little winery of great wines.”

Determined to make the best wines in the country, he brought over European grape varieties and adapted them to the climate and soil of the San Rafael region, establishing the family winery that would become a true Argentine heritage: Bodegas Bianchi.

Valentín’s son, Enzo Bianchi, carried on his father’s vision, focusing on innovation and top quality in all their wines. Bold and forward-thinking, Enzo created pioneering red and white wines that set trends in Argentine winemaking. Iconic wines like Don Valentín Lacrado and Bianchi Particular came from his knowledge and intuition.

Enzo’s three children, Valentín, Raúl, and Sylvia, together with their cousins, the Stradella family, continued to build on this legacy, earning international awards and recognition.

Today, Bianchi Winery is a global brand, present in over 40 countries, representing the values and quality of Argentine wine around the world.

With more than 90 years of history and four generations of winemaking, the Bianchi Family keeps the family’s legacy and values alive, crafting unique wines and always searching for new flavors to share both locally and internationally.

You can purchase their wines on their website, learn more about their story, and book a visit to the winery.

3- Salentein Winery

Salentein is the first Argentine winery that combines wine, art, gastronomy, and the good life: “We founded a winery, transforming a region.”

The winery is located at an altitude of 1,200 meters, right in the center of the vineyards, surrounded by over 49 hectares of preserved native desert habitat that forms part of the landscape. The western horizon is dominated by the nearby snow-capped Andes, rising over 6,100 meters.

This magnificent winery was designed with both form and function in mind. Its cross-shaped design allows for careful handling of the grapes and wine, reducing the distance that both the fruit and the final product travel during the various stages of production. Each wing of the winery is a small facility with two levels.

The four wings converge in a circular central chamber, similar to an amphitheater, inspired by the classic temples of antiquity.

The underground cellars are located nine meters below ground. From the upper level, the floor of the central chamber features a significant design with strong symbolic content: it is based on the compass rose, with each point oriented towards the cardinal directions, representing its connection to the rest of the world.

There are three tasting rooms: one central room and two side rooms, located in the basement at the same level as the wine cellars.

The beauty and function come together in the Primus Room. This exclusive space is unique in the country and contains 12 French oak barrels of 7,600 liters each, equipped with a controlled cooling system. Here, only during harvests of exceptional quality fruit, the limited edition wine line of Bodegas Salentein is produced.

The three estates range from 1,050 to 1,700 meters in altitude. The San Pablo estate features the highest vineyards in the province and some of the highest in the world. The high elevation of the estates offers two main advantages: access to water and temperature control.

The soils of the three estates vary, but they are generally alluvial and sandy, situated over a bed of stones. These characteristics facilitate permeability and drainage, allowing for regulated irrigation to control both vine vigor and grape quality.

The climate of the estates is continental and monsoonal, meaning it is dry and sunny almost every day of the year. Annual precipitation is low, averaging 204 millimeters, mainly in the summer. It typically snows about three times a year in winter. This climate helps produce healthy grapes without the need for treatments against diseases caused by humidity or insects.

Additionally, the temperature range in the region reaches up to 16°C, contributing to the health of the plants.

Bodegas Salentein’s vineyards are irrigated with pure water from the melting snow of the Andes, sourced directly from streams or underground aquifers. The clarity and purity of this water results in a low pH in the grapes, higher acidity, and wines with more color and aging potential.

The Salentein Restaurant is a magnificent place to enjoy wine and gastronomy with an unparalleled view and natural surroundings. Under the guidance of our executive chef Matías Gil Falcón, the restaurant pairs the best local dishes with our wines.

The restaurant emphasizes local producers from the Uco Valley, respecting local ingredients and honoring the roots of Andean culture. Guests can enjoy a variety of tasting menus or order à la carte, with the option to try all the wines from the winery.

It is open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., with prior reservation required.

For reservations, inquiries, and pricing:

• Email: espaciosalentein@salentein.com
• Reservations: Bodega Salentein Reservations

Salentein also offers lodging, with a total of 14 rooms surrounded by gardens and vineyards, a seasonal pool with a view of the Andes, and much more. Guests can enjoy various activities such as:

• Visit to Salentein Winery
• Visit to the Killka Art Gallery
• Access to the Chapel of Gratitude

Guests of Posada Salentein receive benefits at the Espacio Salentein restaurant and in the wine shop.

Pets are not allowed.

Reservations: posada@salentein.com
WhatsApp 24 hours: +549 261 6860153

4- Norton Winery

Norton has five vineyards spread across the main terroirs of Mendoza Province, at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, all located in a privileged area known as the First Zone because of the quality of its grapes. The vineyards are planted with various grape varieties, including Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

According to Norton, it’s not just the geographical location that influences the quality of the wines, but also the age of the vines.

Norton is one of the largest and most respected wineries in Argentina, producing a wide range of wines, from Malbec to Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The winery is also known for its innovative winemaking practices, commitment to sustainable viticulture, and tourist attractions.

Founded in 1900 by Edmundo Norton, an English engineer inspired by the beauty of the Mendoza Valley and the potential for great wines, Norton quickly became one of Argentina’s leading wineries. Its wines are now exported to over 60 countries worldwide.

The winery produces a wide range of high-quality wines, from basic to premium. Some of the most popular wines include:

• Malbec DOC: A classic Argentine Malbec with aromas of black fruits, spices, and chocolate.
• Libre Malbec: A modern Malbec with bold flavors of red fruits, blackberry, and plum.
• Altura Malbec: A single-varietal Malbec from high-altitude vineyards, with concentrated flavors of black fruits, smoke, and spices.
• Select Pinot Noir: A Pinot Noir with aromas of red fruits, rose petals, and spices.
• Talisman Cabernet Sauvignon: A Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of black fruits, cedar, and tobacco.

Norton is also recognized for its innovative winemaking practices, using various techniques to produce wines with complex flavors and aromas, such as cryoextraction to extract aromas and flavors from the grapes without pulling out strong tannins.

The winery is strongly committed to sustainable viticulture. It employs several practices to reduce its environmental impact, including drip irrigation, composting, and cover crops.

Norton is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of tours and tastings. You can enjoy the winery’s restaurant, which features a menu of regional cuisine paired with its wines.

Through its website, you can learn more about its history, explore its wines, and even purchase them online. (54261) 490 – 9700

5- Catena Zapata Winery

Nicolás Catena Zapata has successfully put Argentina on the global wine map, focusing entirely on quality.

Great wines begin in the vineyard. His vision is to create intense and unforgettable wines that truly express the terroir. The story of Catena is the story of Argentine wine.

Founded in 1902, Catena Zapata Winery is recognized for its pioneering role in reviving the Malbec variety and discovering extreme high-altitude terroirs at the foot of the Andes.

The Adrianna Vineyard, located at nearly 1,500 meters above sea level, has been called the Grand Cru of South America.

Awards and Distinctions include Decanter Man of the Year, Wine Spectator Distinguished Service Award, Der Feinschmaker Award, Wine and Spirits, and Wine Enthusiast Winery Awards.

“There are many ways to discover a new and extraordinary terroir. Luck plays an important role, but luck means nothing if you don’t know what you’re looking for; understanding what constitutes a quality terroir is a real challenge in these times of climate change.”

Nicolás Catena Zapata dared to plant vines where no one thought they could ripen. His high-altitude wine revolution culminated in the discovery of a new terroir for wine: the Adrianna Vineyard, planted at nearly 1,500 meters above sea level.

Currently, the Catena Institute of Wine team is studying every meter, rock, insect, and microorganism of the Adrianna Vineyard, potentially making it the most studied vineyard in the world.

Each of the Catena Zapata family vineyards is divided into plots based on soil composition. These plots are cultivated and harvested separately to extract their most authentic fruit expression.

They have a total of 6 vineyards:

• Adrianna Vineyard
• Domingo Vineyard
• Nicasia Vineyard
• Angelica Sur Vineyard
• La Piramide Vineyard
• Angelica Vineyard

The Catena Institute of Wine, along with the winemaking and viticulture team at Catena Zapata, has the ambitious mission of producing Argentine wines that can compete with the best in the world, advancing Argentina’s wine regions to the forefront over the next 100 years.

In collaboration with the University of California, Davis, and the National University of Cuyo, they lead research and development projects aimed at expanding the boundaries of viticulture knowledge for technicians and the larger wine community.

They have a restaurant called Angelica, where reservations are required. For any issues, you should contact them directly at their email: reservas@angelicarestaurante.com or call the restaurant at +54 9 2615 07-6901. The restaurant will get back to you directly within two weeks.

From Italy to Mendoza, from Bonarda to Malbec, the story of the Catena Zapata family is part of Argentine wine history. They invite you to let the iconic wines of Catena Zapata tell you the century-old story of the family that redefined the word “wine” in Argentina.

This experience includes:

• Tour of the winery
• Tasting of 5 wines: Saint Felicien Bonarda, DV Catena Malbec-Malbec, Angélica Zapata Chardonnay Alta, Argentine Malbec, and Nicolás Catena Zapata

Groups of up to 10 people with a duration of 2 hours.

They invite you to discover a universe of pleasurable sensations, tasting and pairing Catena Zapata wines with a selection of eclectic music.

Includes:

• Tour of the winery
• Sensory experience with music paired with a tasting of 5 wines: Angélica Zapata Chardonnay Alta, Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon, Nicasia Malbec, Argentine Malbec, Saint Felicien Nature

Groups of up to 10 people with a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes.

6- Ruca Malen Winery

This contemporary winery conveys a passion for wine through its commitment to quality and diversity, from the terroir to the production methods.

Situated in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, in Mendoza’s premier wine region, they focus on producing high-end wines.

Dedicated to sustainable practices, they have been certified organic since 2020.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes while experiencing their exceptional wines.

7- Bodega Trapiche

Trapiche Winery, located in Maipú, is surrounded by a unique natural landscape defined by its vineyards and olive groves. Not only is the natural setting worth admiring, but its Renaissance-style building from 1912 is also considered one of the icons of Argentine wine architecture.

Since its inception in 1883, Bodega Trapiche has been recognized for its pursuit of innovation. Understanding the land as its most precious asset and utilizing the latest technologies to explore uncharted territories makes Trapiche a winery that challenges the norm.

The winery was a pioneer in several areas, such as introducing French grape varieties, importing French oak barrels, and creating wines from micro-terroirs.

By exploring the highest global standards in viticulture, Trapiche has become one of the leading export brands in Argentina and has received numerous international accolades.

They practice biodynamics, which involves preserving the natural environment without using chemical compounds, herbicides, or fungicides. They calculate lunar cycles for harvesting, maintain ecosystem balance, promote biological diversity, and restore soil bacterial activity.

Trapiche Restaurant

Their culinary proposal includes a tasting menu paired with the most exclusive Trapiche wines and various à la carte options. They harvest potatoes, tomatoes, olives, and seasonal vegetables from their own garden, ensuring freshness and quality in their offerings.

Visit and Tasting Guide

• Sea and Mountain Tasting
• Trapiche Experience Tasting
• Single Vineyards Tasting
• Signature Wines Tasting

Masterclass

A pairing class led by the Head Sommelier offers the opportunity to experience the most representative wines from the cellar, accompanied by cheeses, nuts, and jams.

Reservations are required for a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 people, with at least 48 hours’ notice.

Station 83

They have a bar located in the Maipú winery, offering a completely new and different experience inside a train car that originally transported grapes to and from the winery.

Additionally, they have a winery in Chapadmalal, 6 kilometers from the sea, surrounded by gentle hills and beautiful fields that lead to the South Atlantic.

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
Last visit: 4 PM.
Guided tours require advance reservation.

Contact Information:

• Phone: (0261) 520 7600
• WhatsApp: +54 9 261 774 4904
• Email: turismo@trapiche.com.ar
• Instagram: experienciatrapiche

8- Séptima Winery

Raventós Codorníu is one of the oldest wine families in Spain, dedicated to winemaking since 1551, with over 465 years of experience producing wines and cavas enjoyed worldwide.

Looking to expand into the New World’s great terroirs, Raventós Codorníu established itself in Napa Valley in 1991. After exploring different regions, they chose Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina, in 1999 for its excellent conditions for producing international-quality wines. The winery was built in 2001 in Agrelo, at the foot of the Andes, at 1,050 meters above sea level.

Today, they have 14 historic wineries and offer wines that highlight the winemaking tradition and essence of each region.

The winery is part of a 21st-century model that combines European heritage and knowledge, owning estates, producing premium wines, and showing great respect for the terroir.

Innovation, research, and experimentation are key pillars at Séptima Winery. They aim to create unique wines that truly represent the land while being creative and honoring the history of quality wine producers.

Their winemaking approach is clean and minimally invasive, respecting both the varietal characteristics and the terroir of the grapes.

They produce modern, authentic, and noble wines with high quality sustained over time, and a clear sense of terroir.

They create contemporary wines with a strong varietal identity, using high-quality grapes and innovative winemaking techniques.

They were pioneers in precision agriculture, studying each row and mapping by plots. In winemaking, they conduct experiments with microvinifications, co-fermentation with grape pomace, research on indigenous yeasts, and use various methods and containers for fermentation and aging.

9- Los Toneles Winery

Their efforts are focused on producing high-quality grapes, which are hand-harvested from high-altitude valleys.

The wine reflects the essence of the land and the hard work of people. Therefore, from the beginning, they decided that the winery would only use grapes from small-scale vineyards. These vineyards are located in various regions, where fewer varieties are grown per hectare, prioritizing quality over quantity to preserve and convey the values and personality of each estate.

Finca Don Arturo

• Located in Manzano, Uco Valley.
• Covers an area of 300 hectares, with 32 hectares planted, at 1,400 meters above sea level.

Finca Mantrax

Located in Chacayes, Uco Valley.

Covers an area of 90 hectares, with 53 hectares planted, at 1,250 meters above sea level.

Inside its warm walls and high ceilings, one can feel the heartbeat of time, the hard work, dedication, and passion of those who celebrate the life of wine.

Views and Tastings

They offer a tour featuring 4 wine portfolios that represent the diversity and expression of the Cuyo wine region.

GUIDED TOURS WITH ITINERANT TASTINGS

Fuego Blanco

• Fuego Blanco Malbec Syrah.
• Wine sample in the winery’s concrete pool.
• Flintstone Malbec.

Mosquita Muerta

• Mosquita Muerta Margarita for the Pigs.
• Sample in the winery’s concrete pool.
• Mosquita Muerta Malcriado.

Cafeteria

La Casona Art & Coffee is their café, where art, architecture, and design combine with specialty coffee and artisanal pastries.

It offers a gourmet experience where baristas, chefs, and pastry chefs cater to consumers seeking sophisticated options, prioritizing a leisurely and mindful tasting experience. Here, art and delicate pastries coexist with exquisite elegance.

Days and Hours

They are open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 PM to 9 PM.

Brunch, lunch, or afternoon snacks.

Abrasado

They ensure full traceability and quality in all processes; it is the only restaurant in the Cuyo region offering aged meats, with their signature being dry-aged meats, a process that enhances flavor, color, tenderness, texture, and juiciness.

Days and Hours

They welcome visitors:

• Tuesday to Sunday: from 12 PM to 2:30 PM (lunch)
• Tuesday to Saturday: from 7 PM to 10:30 PM (dinner)