Mendoza, good wine and much more
The transition from summer with its long and cosy evenings to the bleak and rainy autumn days is always a change for me. Luckily there is one benefit: it's time for red wine. Nice and warm on the couch accompanied by a good glass of Argentine Malbec, a not to be missed cheese platter and a good series. If you look at it that way, the cold autumn and winter months are not that bad.
The most important wine region of Argentina
When it comes to red wine, you're doing me a big favour with the famous Argentine Malbec from the Mendoza wine region. I tasted this wine for the first time in Mendoza, so I must confess that sentiment probably also plays a big role in my preference. Nevertheless, I am not the only one who is a fan of this wine. Malbec is Argentina's number one grape variety and Mendoza is the most important wine region in the country. As much as 70% of the entire Argentine wine production is produced in this region.
A special feature of the wine region is its location. The grapes grow here at about 800-1200 meters above sea level. This ensures higher sunlight during the day so that the tannins in the grapes ripen well. In the evening and night it cools down considerably in the region so that the ripening process is slowed down again and the grapes lose their acidity less quickly. This results in the special combination of a supple and round wine that at the same time still tastes nice and fresh. A good Argentine steak and my evening can't go wrong anymore.
There's a lot more to do in Mendoza
So the wine from Mendoza is of good quality, but there are many more reasons to visit this region. The views here are breath taking, Mendoza and its surroundings have many different special accommodations and there is plenty to do to keep you entertained for a few days. Visit several wineries, make hikes at the foot of the Andes, ride through the vineyards on horseback or learn everything about the entire winemaking process.
Rally de las Bodegas during the grape harvest
One of the most special periods to visit Mendoza is during the grape harvest season. At the beginning of March, the grape harvest and hard work is celebrated with the Vendimia festival. Apart from an abundance of Malbec, there are plenty of traditional dishes, folkloric singing and dancing and various activities take place. Such as the election of the 'Queen of Vendimia' and the Rally de las Bodegas. A car rally in which the passion for classic cars is combined with the love for wine. In two days the participants drive more than 700 kilometres through the wine region. Along the way there are enough stops to enjoy gastronomic dishes, Polo exhibitions and visits to wineries against the backdrop of the Andes. I would like to experience Mendoza again during this period.
Visit Mendoza in Argentina
Are you curious about the wine region in and around Mendoza, would you like to know more about a trip through Argentina and are you curious about the possibilities? Then take a look at our page about Argentina. Here you will also find travel itineraries that we have put together for inspiration. You can book these trips directly, but we are also happy to create a personal programme based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question or would you like to receive a tailor-made travel proposal? Feel free to contact us. We will be happy to work out a suitable travel proposal for you. Call us on +31 73 610 62 04 or send an e-mail to info@sapapanatravel.nl.