The Uco Valley Wine Region
Just 90 minutes south of Mendoza City, Uco Valley has become one of South America’s most sophisticated wine tourism destinations. Visiting a Uco Valley winery means stepping into a region renowned not only for its high-altitude vineyards and award-winning wines but also for its cutting-edge architecture, environmental commitment, and state-of-the-art technology.
In recent years, the valley has attracted top-tier winemaking projects that integrate sustainable design, world-class infrastructure, and culinary offerings that celebrate Andean identity. Its dry climate, stony soils, and dramatic temperature variations create ideal conditions for precision viticulture.
What Makes the Uco Valley Terroir Unique?
Uco Valley’s secret lies in its geological diversity—from calcareous and alluvial soils to stony formations that demand deep roots and enhance the wine’s mineral expression. Irrigation from pure glacial meltwater, combined with elevations over 1,200 meters above sea level, leads to concentrated, fresh, and age-worthy wines.
This terroir is further elevated by practices like parcel-based vinification, the use of native yeasts, and constant innovation in enological technology. Most Uco Valley wineries to visit now incorporate renewable energy, bioclimatic architecture, and landscape conservation strategies, making the valley a benchmark of conscious and forward-thinking winemaking.
Signature Varietals of Uco Valley
Malbec is Uco Valley’s undisputed flagship, but it doesn’t stand alone. Thanks to cold nights and intense sunlight, Cabernet Franc develops a refined herbal elegance and remarkable tannin structure. Merlot, grown in areas with higher water retention, yields rounded, spicy profiles.
Among whites, Chardonnay from Gualtallary and Los Chacayes stands out for its tension, natural acidity, and mineral notes. High-altitude Sauvignon Blanc expresses a crisp, citrusy profile with vibrant freshness. Even lesser-known grapes like Criolla and Garnacha are making a comeback through microvinification, exploring new expressions of Argentine wine.
Wines like Piedra Infinita Supercal and Gravascal (Zuccardi), Single Vineyard La Pampa and Los Jabalíes (Salentein), and Pasionado Cabernet Franc (Andeluna) have earned accolades from international critics, proving Uco Valley’s potential to produce world-class labels.
Top Uco Valley Wineries to Visit (And 3 You Can’t Miss)
1. Bodega Salentein – Wine, Art, and Elevation
- Wine lines: Gran Valle de Uco Blend, Primus, Numina, Reserve, Barrel Selection, Single Vineyard (La Pampa, Los Jabalíes, Las Secuoyas), Portillo, and Killka.
- Experience: The visit includes a tour of the impressive cross-shaped underground cellar, the Gratitude Chapel, and Killka Space—a modern art center nestled in the mountains. Posada Salentein offers boutique lodging immersed in nature to round out the premium experience.
- Tastings: Vertical tastings, guided sessions led by winemakers, and multi-course Andean cuisine pairings. Perfect for those wanting to delve into the nuances of high-altitude vineyards.
- Sustainability: Smart drip irrigation systems, environmental certifications, and native flora restoration form part of their comprehensive sustainability strategy.
2. Andeluna – Sophistication with a Warm Soul
- Wine lines: 1300, Altitud, Pasionado, Raíces, and limited-edition microvinifications.
- Experience: The stone and wood lodge in Gualtallary boasts stunning views of Tupungato Volcano. Experiences include cooking classes, guided walks, and an open kitchen where guests engage directly with the chef.
- Tastings: Blind tastings, six-course gourmet pairings, and themed tastings focused on elevation and soil. The enology team enhances each session with educational, engaging insights.
- Sustainability: Composting program, water efficiency, solar energy, and sourcing of local ingredients in both cuisine and winemaking.
3. Piedra Infinita (Zuccardi Family) – Pure Terroir
- Wine lines: Finca Piedra Infinita, Supercal, Gravascal, Zuccardi Q, Concreto.
- Experience: Located in Paraje Altamira, the winery is acclaimed for its integration with the landscape and its in-depth soil studies. Tastings take place facing the Andes in a minimalist, serene setting.
- Tastings: Terroir-focused flights, parcel comparisons, fermentation in raw concrete amphorae, and technical presentations by expert sommeliers.
- Sustainability: Solar power, native plant cover, precision irrigation, and gravity-based vinification. Certified “Best of Wine Tourism” for environmental excellence.
Want the Full List? Download the 2025 Complete Guide to Uco Valley Wineries
These three wineries are just the beginning. To discover the full list of best Uco Valley wineries, download our free 2025 guide. You’ll find:
- Curated selection of iconic, boutique, and sustainable wineries
- Tour categories: Premium, Icons, Standard, and Tailored Experiences
- Tasting formats, menus, and exclusive activities
- Interactive map with distances from Mendoza and key landmarks
- Seasonal tips tailored to your experience level and travel style
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Uco Valley Wineries
- Best seasons: March–May (harvest and autumn) and September–November (spring bloom)
- Reservations: Always book ahead. Many Uco Valley Mendoza wineries welcome small groups only.
- What to bring: Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, closed shoes, and a light jacket.
- Transportation: A private tour with driver and expert guide—like those offered by SAK Wine & Travel—is highly recommended.
Beyond Wine: Activities in Uco Valley
Uco Valley invites travelers to explore experiences that go beyond wine tasting, offering deeper immersion into the region:
- Harvest participation: From February to April, join local producers during harvest and learn about manual selection and cultural rituals.
- Regional cooking classes: Workshops led by local chefs featuring ancestral Andean recipes paired with local wines.
- Scenic horseback rides: Explore vineyards on horseback with panoramic views of the Andes—ideal for nature lovers.
- Hiking and trekking: Guided routes through the pre-Andes with gourmet picnic stops.
- Phototourism: Themed trails to capture vineyard architecture and Andes sunrises.
To ensure safety, comfort, and availability, we recommend booking these activities in advance through a trusted agency like SAK Wine & Travel.
Why Choose a Uco Valley Winery on Your Mendoza Trip
Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, the Mendoza wineries to visit in Uco Valley offer more than just great wine: they deliver a complete experience that combines natural beauty, innovation, hospitality, and sustainability. Here, every glass tells a story, and every visit becomes a lasting memory.
