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Mendoza, a province in the west of Argentina, accounts for a whopping two thirds of the nation’s wine production, and has long been a destination for city-dwellers seeking an escape as well as for enotourists from across the globe. When visiting Mendoza, a ‘winery crawl’ is nearly inevitable but which wineries are the cream of the crop? Read on for the most worthwhile vineyards to visit in Mendoza Province.

Mendoza, Mendoza Province

Bodega Luigi Bosca

Wine Bar, Bodega, Argentina

Vino Blanco
© Jorge Gobbi/Flickr
Whilst the price for a visit may seem steep at Bodega Luigi Bosca, it’s worth it: visitors receive samples of a total of four wines, and the tour guides speak impeccable English and are willing to answer all sorts of questions about the wine-making process. The highlight of the winery, however, is the art installation, ‘Wine Way of the Cross,’ created by artist Hugo Leytes, which showcases the process of wine production in a parallel to the life and death of Jesus Christ.

Familia Zuccardi

For a winery experience with a tasty twist, check out the ‘Let’s Cook’ program at this vineyard; it includes a breakfast, a cooking class, a tour and tasting at the winery, and a lunch. The cooking class includes Argentine specialties such as empanadas, and is an exciting behind-the-scenes peek at life at the winery. And, of course, the finished empanadas are accompanied by a house-made tipple; it doesn’t get better than that.
Familia Zuccardi, Ruta Prov 33 km 7,5, Maipú, Mendoza, Argentina, +54 261 441-0000

Andeluna Cellars

This gorgeous winery in the heart of the Uco Valley is friendly and welcoming, with a sun-dappled porch, a cheerful staff, and a well-executed tour. Uniquely, Andeluna Cellars features a customized wine tasting menu, in which the type and amount of wines to taste can be varied. Stick around after the tour for a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, or a casual glass of vino on the porch.

Bodega Ruca Malen

Restaurant, Wine Bar, Bodega, American

Liquid Lunch at Ruca Malen
© Ben O'Bryan/Flickr
The restaurant at the exceptional Bodega Ruca Malen boasts the title of 2014 Global Winner of Great Wine Capitals’ ‘Best of Wine Tourism’ award, and for good reason. The menu (and coordinating wine pairings) is altered to suit each season, and is vetted by the knowledgeable staff before being unveiled. Sit outdoors if the weather is good, and enjoy the view of the vineyard as you partake in the memorable five-course feast.

Terrazas de los Andes

For a breathtakingly beautiful landscape, look no further than this stunning winery, originally built in 1898. From the natural beauty to the historic buildings (remarkably spared from the devastating earthquake which hit Mendoza a century ago) to even the tank room, which offers a high ceiling and archways of brick, this winery is unlike any other.

About the author

Maddy is in her second year reading English at the University of St Andrews. Born and bred in Washington, DC, she retains an affinity for political intrigue, urban green space, and Ethiopian cuisine despite newly appreciating the British traditions of queueing, apologising, and Wimbledon. Maddy's freelance writing has been published in media such as Matador Network and Thistle Magazine as well as in St Andrews-based publications. She'll travel anywhere, just give her a moment to lace up her Adidas.

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