12 REASONS WHY THERE’S NO SUBSTITUTE FOR A WINE HOLIDAY IN ARGENTINA.
On our recent trip to Mendoza, Argentina, we were pondering what it is that makes an excellent wine holiday. Having explored the wine regions of France, Spain, Italy, South Africa and England we felt that our bar had been set quite high.
In all honesty, we weren’t expecting that our trip to Argentina’s wine regions would be quite such an amazing experience.
Of course, we expected more than a few dusty vineyards, but we had not anticipated the array of wines on offer, the impeccable hospitality and the all round extravaganza that was a wine holiday in Argentina.
Argentina, is of course renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Mendoza to the historic bodegas of Salta, Argentina offers a wine lover’s paradise like no other.
But it’s more than that. Yes, the scenery is incredible – but it’s the feeling that being in Mendoza gives you. It’s not stuffy, or pretentious. You’re not expected to know everything there is about wine, just to visit a winery. Instead, your days out drinking wine are fun, carefree and frivolous (not just because wine in Argentina is so affordable.)
Suffice to say, we think that Argentina has all of the components to make an excellent vacation destination for avid wine aficionados.
Here are 12 reasons why we think there is no substitute for a wine holiday in Argentina.
1. Malbec, Malbec and more Malbec
Let’s kick things off with the undisputed king of Argentine wine, Malbec. Rich, bold, and utterly delicious, Malbec has put Argentina on the global wine map, earning accolades from critics and wine lovers alike.
Research by Wine Spectator confirms that “Argentina’s Malbecs offer an unbeatable combination of quality and value.” And, let’s be honest, there’s little that can accompany grilled red meat better than a Malbec Reserva.
2. But, it’s not just Malbec
While Malbec steals the spotlight, Argentina boasts a diverse array of wines waiting to be explored. At the first vineyard we visited in Argetina, Bodega Viamonte, we were surprised to see not just red, but white and rosé.
As our host explained to us that the rosé was not their best wine (they’ve won numerous awards for their Malbec), we were too busy falling in love with the delicate strawberry flavors, to care about any awards.
There’s little better than a glass of rosé sampled in a beautiful winery, to make you feel alive.
Beyond this, we sampled Torrontés. A white grape mainly produced in the Northern Salta region of Argentina.
The fresh lightgness and elegance of this wine put is in mind of good quality Reisling or Muscat. Delightful. Cabernet Sauvingnon is also increasingly popular in Argentina, a smooth counter balance to the powerful Malbec on offer.
3. The Argentinean wine industry is evolving
Argentina’s wine industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving beast, with winemakers constantly pushing the boundaries and experimenting with new techniques.
Research by Decanter reveals that “Argentina’s wine industry is experiencing a renaissance, with a new generation of winemakers pushing boundaries and redefining traditions.”
You can find organic wine on offer, a number of wineries in Mendoza are now producing this. The small shop, Wine is Art, in Chacras de Coria is one such place offering a selection of organic and biodynamic grapes from small producers.
During a wine tasting in Buenos Aires, we were introduced to a smooth and fruity red blend, predominately made with Cabernet Franc, which we were assured would be featuring in Argentinean wines more in the future.
4. Hospitality with heart
Argentines are known for their warmth and hospitality, and nowhere is this more evident than in the country’s wineries.
As noted by Wine Enthusiast, “Argentine wineries offer visitors a warm welcome, with personalized tours and tastings that make you feel like part of the family.”
This was felt throughout our trip to Argentina. But what we found most interesting, is that there are so many young people working in hospitality in the wine industries of Argentina. All who we met were knowledgeable, expert and extremely passionate.
5. Ease of transport
Getting around Argentina’s wine regions is a breeze, thanks to a well-connected network of roads and transportation options. From guided tours to self-drive adventures, travelers have ample choices to explore the vineyards at their own pace.
Of course, the best wine regions are set up to allow wine enthusiasts to sample as many wines as they wish without worrying about driving.
This is the case in Argentina, especially in the towns around Mendoza city, such as Maipu. Here, we hired bikes from the well organized Wine & Ride team, and sucked the vines dry until our hearts were content.
6. The three wine areas of Mendoza
Ah, Mendoza, the beating heart of Argentina’s wine country. It is divided into three distinct areas, Luján de Cuyo, Maipú, and the Uco Valley, Mendoza offers a tantalizing taste of Argentine viticulture at its finest.
As highlighted by Forbes, “The diversity of Mendoza’s wine regions is a testament to Argentina’s winemaking prowess.”
For holiday makers, this is the dream. With three large wine areas to explore, you’re never going to be bored.
In fact, you could spend a week in any one of these regions and not run out of wineries to visit. We recommend trying to visit at least one or two wineries in each area, all three are distinct in character, style and in terms of the wine they produce.
7. You can stay on a winery
The ultimate wine experience has to be staying on a vineyard. Many wineries in Argentina offer charming accommodations amidst the vines, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views and enjoy exclusive access to tastings and activities.
The bonus, is that most have high-end restaurants and fabulous facilities. Meaning, you can totally unwind and enjoy your surroundings, without going further afield.
8. Beyond Mendoza
While Mendoza may steal the spotlight, Argentina’s wine map extends far beyond its borders.
From the high-altitude vineyards of Salta to the rugged beauty of Patagonia, there’s a whole world of wine waiting to be discovered outside of Mendoza’s borders.
Salta is known as having some of the highest vineyards in the world. As well as producing Malbec and Torrontes. Having fallen in love with Torrontes, suffice to say that Salta, will be our first stop when we return to Argentina.
9. A wine holiday in Argentina can be affordable
A wine holiday in Argentina doesn’t have to break the bank. Whilst we might advise anyone on a budget to skip the Uco Valley, other areas of the Mendoza region and indeed Salta offer with affordable accommodations.
Dining options even in exclusive wineries are very reasonable. Need we mention the finest T-Bone steak that we had ever eaten for $20. Tours too can suit every budget. So, sip, savor, and save as you indulge in the best of Argentine wine country without breaking the bank.
10. High altitude wineries
Many of Argentina’s vineyards are situated at dizzying altitudes, where cool temperatures and ample sunshine create the perfect conditions for grape growing.
So, prepare to be wowed by the high-altitude wines of Argentina as you explore vineyards perched on the edge of the Andes Mountains.
The Uco Valley, with the backdrop of the Andes is nothing short of stunning.
11. Scenic vistas
The landscapes of Argentina’s wine regions are nothing short of spectacular, with rolling vineyards, snow-capped peaks, and lush valleys stretching as far as the eye can see. So, take a break from wine tasting and soak in the natural beauty of the Argentine countryside – it’s like therapy for the soul.
As well as enjoying the vistas, there are also lots of activities to do in the countryside around the wineries. Even things that don’t involve wine. This is perfect if you want to balance our your consumption with something more active – like hiking in the Andes or even horse riding.
12. Foodie Heaven
A wine holiday in Argentina is as much about the food as it is about the wine. So, prepare to feast on juicy steaks, savory empanadas, and other Argentine delicacies, expertly paired with the country’s finest wines. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Where to stay in Mendoza & How to visit the best wineries
Have we got you convinced that you ought to visit Argentina for a wine holiday?
Get ready to fall in love with Mendoza, where you can sip on the finest wines, hike through breathtaking landscapes, and soak up the local culture.
It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but with more Malbec and fewer dragons. Mendoza is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to indulge in life’s simple pleasures while surrounded by stunning natural beauty and friendly locals.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHERE TO STAY IN MENDOZA & HOW TO VISIT THE BEST WINERIES IN OUR DETAILED GUIDE.
Where to next in Argentina?
You can find our guides to travelling in Argentina below:
- Buenos Aires – a three day itinerary
- Best things to do in Palermo, Buenos Aires
- Dining at Don Julio restaurant in Buenos Aires
- Where to stay in Buenos Aires
- Where to stay in Mendoza
- Our experience of staying in a wine hotel in Mendoza
- Wine cycling in Mendoza – a top experience
- Best hikes in Bariloche
- Best hikes & things to do in El Chalten
- Visiting Perito Moreno Glacier – a guide
- Driving in Argentina: A guide
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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