The Most Memorable Wine Tour in Mendoza

Located in central Argentina on the eastern side of the Andean Mountains, Mendoza is known for producing some of the world’s best wines and olive oils. Mendoza’s climate, soil and geographic location are ideal for growing grapes, which makes it one of the largest wine-producing regions in Latin America. To learn more, Charlie O’Malley from Trout & Wine Tours, an Argentinian wine tour company based in Mendoza, shares his knowledge of local wines and tasting tips.

Photo by Kelsey Knight

How long have you been giving wine tours in Mendoza?

I have been giving wine tours for more than 15 years. I started back before wine tourism was popular in Argentina. My background is in journalism, and people used to contact me through a wine magazine called Wine Republic looking to get into the wineries as nobody answered the phones. Suddenly I was driving people to wineries and thinking, “this is fun!” So, I started one of the first wine tour companies in Argentina. Now there are about 200.

How many wineries are in Mendoza?

There are at least 1,000 wineries in the Mendoza region. Nearly 300 now do visits but the reality is that maybe a core 30 wineries do great tours as they have that magic formula of excellent wines, charismatic guides and beautiful locations. Unfortunately, some of Argentina’s most famous wineries do terrible tours with stiff, robotic guides and, God forbid, corporate videos.

Which grape varieties are grown in Mendoza?

Everybody wants Malbec but the truth is Mendoza has a great variety of grapes including Bonarda, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. This is traditionally red wine country but better vineyard techniques mean Argentina is now producing nice crisp Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. A big surprise is the white Torrontés, the only local fine wine that has aromas of Turkish Delight.

Are there classifications for Argentinian wine, similar to premier cru in parts of France?

No, there are very few DOC appellations and the region is better for it. One of the reasons French winemakers love making wine in Argentina is their hands are not tied and options are not restricted. New grapes are being planted all the time.

What are some things to keep in mind when tasting wine in Mendoza?

Keep in mind the temperature of course and a neutral environment with no strong aromas such as perfumes. One winery here spent a fortune on leather furniture in their tasting room and had to get rid of it. Glasses are important and a decanter is essential for big wines. Make sure to have breakfast before a tour. On our tours, you can try on average 17 wines in one day, and here, they are very generous with their pours.

What foods are traditionally served with Argentinian wines?

Beef and Malbec are a lucky combination, which is just as well as Argentines love both. Empanadas are always good as is the excellent goat cheese that is locally produced in Mendoza. There are more goats in Mendoza than people! Here you can get Malbec-flavored ice cream, and the local chardonnay goes well with sweet jam desserts, hazelnuts and almonds – all local products.

What is something about wine tours in Mendoza that might surprise visitors?

All the better wineries have strict security. There is a guard at the gate, and if your name is not on his clipboard, you cannot get in. You have to book ahead. Here there is no cellar door where you just roll up and put your belly to the bar. You have to plan.

What is the best time of year to visit Mendoza?

November is one of the best times to visit Mendoza. The Andes are covered in snow and the vineyards are bursting into green.

Which wine tour in Mendoza would you recommend to first-time visitors?

Lujan de Cuyo is a great tour. It has everything: beautiful old romantic wineries, modern state-of-the-art establishments and beautiful mountain views. The best thing you can do in Mendoza is a multi-course lunch with wine pairings in a winery. The wine is great but the food is creative and extravagant.