Dive into understanding more of Argentina’s most beloved grape—Malbec.. Today explore the different microclimates in the region of Luján de Cuyo to better understand this grape’s unique expression. To kick off the fun, you are invited to understand old vine, low yield Malbec, carefully crafted by winemaker Roberto de la Mota. In the turn-of-the-century bodega, get to know his intense yet elegant wines which are full of character.
Next, drive to the area known as Lunlunta. Hidden off a country road next to an old ivy-covered church, chime the bell of this tiny garage winery whose owner and winemaker is considered one of the fathers of Mendocino terroir. Using their own savings, ingenuity, and passion, they have transformed and reignited viticulture in this part of Mendoza. Try their hand-crafted wines and visit this enchanting place with the family. This is as local as it gets!
Lunch is a five-course gourmet endeavor at a family-owned estate where each dish is skillfully paired with their full line of Malbec, from rosé to the reserva. Finally, just around the corner, is the petit bodega of the Bressia family. They will welcome you into their winery just like family. They love to share their craft. Their wines are long, satiny, and ripe. Tasting with cheese board and conversation.
Around the corner and down a dusty road is the chicest luxury wine hotel in Mendoza: Cavas Wine Lodge. Surrounded by vineyards with panoramic views of the Andes, the hip Cecilia and her husband Martin breathe a special vibe into this magical place. Impeccable service, intimacy, attention to detail, and spacious rooms, and a world class spa, to name a few.
Check in and the rest of the afternoon is free. Dinner is on your own tonight at Cavas’ delicious restaurant.
Day 2
Today dive the heart of Mendoza—getting to know its passionate winemakers and tiny, boutique projects. Visit an unassuming bodega located on the shores of the Mendoza River. Now a worldwide reference for its single vineyard wines, learn about their winemaking philosophy and taste the different components of the Quimeira blend in an educational tasting with barrel samples. It is an excellent introduction to how varied Malbec and Mendocino terroir can be.
Next, stop by is a primo sparkling wine project. Dry, sparkling wines are an old school tradition in Argentina. Savor each sip as you learn how they create their brut, nature, and rosé wines. Tasting around noon is the perfect “snack”.
Have lunch at an organic vegetable farm that produces gourmet delicatessen treats like homemade roasted Piquillo peppers, Green Tomato Chutney, Rose Confit, and Malbec jam. Everything is home grown, harvested, and processed on site. Take a walk around the property to visit the gardens and sit down to a 5-course guided tasting lunch in their renovated mansion to try Mediterranean-accented specialties.
After lunch, visit a tiny jewel tucked away in the shady lanes of Chacras de Coria. Making some of the most distinctive wines in the region, including a wonderful Nebbiolo and a rare Malebc clone called Brote Negro, the wines are pure poetry. Expressive, juicy, complex. A perfect end to the day.
Return to Cavas in the late afternoon. Have dinner tonight in town at celebrity chef Francis Mallman’s 1884 restaurant, a Mendocino classic. Housed in the old Escorihuela winery, savor the delicious grilled meats for which Mallman is so renowned.
Day 3
Located an hour south of the action in Luján, the high-altitude Uco Valley has extended beyond Malbec. Many wineries are experimenting with new varietals like Cabernet, Tempranillo, and Syrah. A lush agricultural valley amid a parched desert, the valley floor is dotted by almond trees and orchards. The Andes feel like they are at arm’s length.
Drive south by way of the scenic road over the rolling hills to arrive in Tupungato near the base of the volcano. Stop by a garage operation where everything is in miniature. Their Cabernet and Malbec have grabbed much attention for their distinct personality and excellent value. Tasting with one of the winemakers.
Lunch is up the road with sweeping vistas of vines and mountains. Talented cooks put their farm-to-table philosophy to practice in this rustic restaurant focusing on regional cuisine and Uco wines.
In the village of Vista Flores, visit the project of the young, innovative winemaker Mauricio Lorca. The depth of his wines (without oak!) show the power of Uco’s extraordinary soil and climate. Brief visit and tasting.
Just down the road, stay at Casa Antucura, the guest house of Antucura winery’s owners. A comfortable house with a sprawling lawn, a gleaming pool, and enchanting mountain views, get some fresh air, take a dip, or settle in a primo cigar and glass of house wine. Or peruse a good book from their 7,000-book library. The afternoon is at your leisure. Dinner tonight is prepared by the talented cook, Estefania. Let her dazzle your taste buds with simple, tasty food and more house wines. Her signature chimichurri salsa is addictive. Cheers to a great time in Uco!
Day 4
Awake to birds chirping and breakfast in bed. This morning, if you like, visit Antucura’s winery for a formal explanation of how their two spectacular Cabernet blends are made under the expertise of French winemaker extraordinaire, Michel Rolland.
Later, pack up and set off to experience one of Argentina’s newest wineries that has become a worldwide hit for the quality of its wines. The stunning location at the feet of the mountains is sharply contrasted with futuristic architecture. Founded in the new millennium by a Spanish family, the house specialty is Tempranillo. Get to know these singular wines with a tour of Matrix-like winery followed by a full tasting of their top wines from their properties in Argentina, Chile, and Spain.
Meander down to your table at the winery’s swish restaurant, Urban. Let them delight you with elegant food and top wines.
Return in the afternoon to Mendoza or the airport for your flight.
Inclusions:
• Round-trip first-class transportation to/from your hotel in Mendoza with professional driver
• English-speaking wine-specialized host
• All private winery visits (except Achaval Ferrer) and premium tastings
• 4 gourmet lunches with wine and gratuity included; 1 dinner at Casa Antucura; daily breakfast at hotel
