Mendoza & Wine Regions
The ancient craft of wine-making was first introduced to Argentina during the 16th century by missionary priests crossing the Andes from Chile. Many of the well-established wineries have records dating back to the 18th century when European settlers brought their skills and grape varieties to Mendoza. The vines flourished and Argentina has since earned international status as the world’s fifth largest producer and major exporter of premium quality wine.
Nestled at the foot of the Andes in the desert region of Cuyo, Mendoza is proud of its reputation for being the heart and soul of Argentina’s wine country, using irrigated mineral-rich water from the Andes to nurture their well-maintained vines. A visit to one of Mendoza’s well-established or lesser known boutique bodegas is an equally rewarding experience for both the novice and professional connoisseur, especially during the annual Fiesta de Vendimia - celebrations to commemorate bountiful harvests.
Although primarily associated with wine making, Mendoza also offers the main Andean crossing to Santiago in Chile, and marks the offset for climbing expeditions to Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Andes.
It’s difficult to escape the laid back ambience of downtown Mendoza where afternoons are spent leisurely, sipping wine of course, in the cosmopolitan café’s and restaurants that line each brightly festooned plaza or broadleaf avenue.
For more information or advice on planning your holiday to Argentina please call Emma, our country specialst, on 01285 885 333.