Mendoza

Mendoza: Wine Capital of Argentina

Mendoza rests near the eastern slopes of the Andes, at roughly the same latitude as Santiago de Chile. This is one of the world’s great wine capitals. The area ranks among the top five producers worldwide, accounting for over 70% of Argentina’s total volume.

Early Jesuit pioneers planted Mendoza’s first vines in the 16th century. Refinements by Italian and French vintners followed. Today, the area boasts over 1,000 vineyards, spread among five regions near Mendoza, each with unique characteristics and varietals.

Mendoza Town

Although most visitors head to the nearby wine valleys upon landing, the city itself offers:

• Leafy Park
• Plazas
• Worthwhile Museums
• Sidewalk Cafes
• Fine Restaurants
• Inspired Ice Cream Shops (think dulce de leche, fresh peach, and Malbec-laced vanilla)

Lujan de Cuyo, Maipu, Chacras de Coria, and Godoy Cruz

Sandy soil, high altitude, and dry climate make this the Land of Malbec. Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and fine olives are also masterfully produced here. Cool nights and varying altitudes allow a wide variety, including Malbec, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.

San Martin, Junin and Rivadavia

The region east of Mendoza is known for high-yield vineyards producing Syrah, Torrontés, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

San Rafael and General Alvear

The cooler climate south of Mendoza enables the production of Chenins, Merlots, Syrahs, Chardonnays, and Semillons.

Lavalle and Las Heras

North of Mendoza—low altitude and shallow soils produce Torrontés, Bonarda, Malbec, and Chardonnay.

Our Favorite Hotels

What to do in Mendoza

Beyond the vineyards, Mendoza is rich in outdoor adventure opportunities:

• Whitewater Rafting
• Horseback Riding
• Mountain Biking
• Trekking
• Driving Tours Through the Mountains and River Valleys
• Just two hours west of Mendoza, Aconcagua is the continent’s highest peak (22,841 feet above sea level).

Boutique wineries offer in-depth vineyard tours and premium wine tastings. Picnics, privately guided winery tours, and multi-day circuits with overnight stays at top-shelf wine lodges can be arranged.

Held in early March, the annual harvest festival (the Vendimia) draws wine lovers with tastings, outdoor concerts, and fireworks.

Las Leñas, one of South America’s best ski resorts, is located south of Mendoza near the town of Malargüe.

What is the Weather Like?

Mendoza is a four-season destination. During summer, temperatures in Mendoza vary between 85°F and 105°F or more, especially during the months of January and February. January and February can have sudden rain in the evenings that leaves as quickly as it starts. Nights tend to be cooler.

Fall extends from March to May, bringing harvest colors and highs in the 80s. Spring (September to November) is similar to fall, with the welcome addition of wildflowers and fruit-tree blossoms.

Winter is the driest and sunniest time of the year. Temperatures average around 55°F and 35°F at night. June to August is ski season at Las Leñas.

These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.

Getting There

By air, Mendoza is two hours from Buenos Aires and one hour and forty minutes from Cordoba.

International flights to Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru are also available.

Start your journey today