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Mendoza wine route for beginners (Maipú, Luján & Uco Valley)

Which area to choose, what to expect from a winery visit, tasting tips and how to plan a perfect day among Mendoza’s vineyards.

Mendoza is all about wine and mountains. If you’re new to winery visits, keep it simple: pick one area, book transportation, and enjoy without driving.

Maipú, Luján or Uco Valley

  • Maipú: close to the city, classic wineries—great if you’re short on time.
  • Luján de Cuyo: iconic Malbec and well‑known wineries.
  • Uco Valley: top scenery + modern wineries (farther, bigger “wow”).

What a winery tour includes

  • Round‑trip transportation (key to enjoy tastings).
  • Guided visit (process, history, barrel room).
  • Tasting (sometimes with pairing or lunch, depending on the option).
Pro tip

Want the full experience? Choose a tour with lunch—it sets a relaxed pace for the whole day.

Tasting tips

  • Drink water between wines and eat something (don’t arrive fasting).
  • Ask about local styles (Malbec, Cabernet Franc, high‑altitude whites).
  • In summer, bring sunscreen—vineyards can be very exposed.

Suggested plan

1‑day plan: morning departure + 2 wineries + tasting + return mid‑afternoon. If you still have energy, end with a sunset and dinner in town.

For an easy, first‑timer friendly option:

Book the winery tour

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes—especially in peak season and weekends. Many wineries work with fixed schedules and limited capacity.

Can I do it on my own?

You can, but if you plan to taste wine, transportation/tours are recommended to avoid driving and to optimize time.

What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes and layers—the temperature swings are real. Warm clothing in winter; hat and sunscreen in summer.

Read next: best time to visit Argentina.

Keep reading

More guides to plan your trip.