Hugo Laricchia explains why visiting "Disney for Adults" can be a challenge for enthusiasts.
"Traveling to Mendoza and visiting wineries can be a dream plan for a wine lover or someone looking for relaxation in what many call Disney for adults. But it’s not always that simple: here are some tips to make it truly the trip of a lifetime."
It is essential to organize your tour in advance: selecting wineries, areas, lunches, providers, and accommodation. All wineries require prior reservation, as the tasting rooms have limited capacity. Ideally, reservations should be made at least 30 days in advance.
Mendoza has three main wine tourism areas: Luján de Cuyo, Maipú, and Valle de Uco. It is not advisable to mix areas in the same day: too much time is lost in transfers, and the enjoyment of the wineries is reduced. Distances can be long even within the same area.
The standard plan is 2 tastings and 1 lunch. However, we recommend reducing it to 1 visit + 1 lunch for a relaxed day without rush.
Mendoza has more than a thousand wineries, and many of the best ones are not the most famous. Don’t be guided only by marketing or flashy awards: the most authentic experience lies in reality and in what is inside the bottle.
Wineries are usually open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. There are no dinners at wineries. In addition, a typical lunch ends close to 5:00 p.m. with plenty of wine, so booking a dinner is usually unnecessary. The best plan: a light walk and rest to continue the next day.
You don’t need to be a wine expert. Mendoza offers fun, romance, or learning depending on what you’re looking for: wineries with a lively vibe for groups of friends, intimacy and elegance for couples, or unique labels for true wine lovers. Be clear with your expectations to choose wisely.
Do not attempt to visit wineries with your own or rented vehicle: apart from alcohol controls and fines, the experience is ruined. Options range from regular minibus tours to premium private tours with a driver and bilingual guide —a specialty of Discovery Wine Mendoza.
It is not a family plan: children get bored and parents don’t enjoy themselves either. This is an adult trip, designed for relaxation and wine. If you cannot leave the kids for a few days, wait: sharing a glass of wine with them when they grow up will be even more special.
Personalized advice | Confirmed reservations | Premium experiences