Taking a Uco Valley wine tour is one of the best decisions you can make when visiting Mendoza. This region offers world-class wines, breathtaking landscapes and gastronomic experiences that have positioned the province as one of South America’s most exciting gourmet destinations.
Whether you’re looking for a private vineyard tour at high altitudes or a shared group experience with fellow travelers, this guide will help you plan your visit, explore the top wineries, and understand why a Uco Valley tour is much more than a wine tasting.
Why take a wine tour in Uco Valley?
A wine tour through Uco Valley means experiencing wine at its source—directly with the people who make it, surrounded by stunning nature, and supported by high-end, personalized services.
Altitude (between 900 and 1,500 meters), sharp temperature shifts, and mineral-rich soils make this region ideal for wines with strong identity. This is reflected in award-winning labels and a style of hospitality that blends professionalism with local warmth.
In addition, many wineries in the region follow sustainable practices and feature architectural designs that enhance the wine tourism experience.
Top wineries to visit in Uco Valley
Here are some of the most recommended wineries for your Uco Valley wine tour:
- Zuccardi Valle de Uco: Named World’s Best Vineyard three years in a row. It offers impressive architecture, vineyard-focused winemaking, and a deep commitment to research and terroir expression.
- Andeluna: Perfect for culinary travelers, with cooking classes and high-altitude wines that reflect the local character.
- Salentein: A pioneer in the region, it includes an underground cellar, a chapel, and a renowned art gallery.
- Piedra Infinita (Zuccardi): Its restaurant earned a Michelin Green Star for sustainable excellence in the 2025 edition.
- Domaine Bousquet and Andeluna: Leaders in organic and sustainable wine practices, offering vegan and gluten-free menus as well.
Looking for the best places to eat in the region? Check out our guide to Uco Valley wineries for lunch.
International awards and special mentions
Uco Valley has received numerous accolades for its wine, cuisine and overall tourism experience:
- Zuccardi was awarded World’s Best Vineyard in 2019, 2020 and 2021.
- Piedra Infinita Cocina earned a Michelin Green Star in 2025 for its locally sourced, sustainable cuisine.
- Casa de Uco, Andeluna and Salentein were featured in publications like Wine Enthusiast, Decanter, and Wine Spectator.
- Many wineries have received gold medals at international competitions such as the Decanter World Wine Awards, International Wine Challenge and Tim Atkin’s Argentina Report.
These recognitions highlight not only the wine quality but also the holistic vision combining production, design, service and environmental care.
Three perfect days in Uco Valley: wine, gastronomy and nature
Here’s a 3-day itinerary designed to help you experience the best of Uco Valley—combining wine tasting, outdoor activities and fine dining.
Day 1: boutique wineries and relaxation
- Private tour of two boutique wineries with gourmet lunch included (see tour details)
- Free afternoon to enjoy your lodge or explore the surroundings
- Casual dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant
Day 2: local cuisine and high-altitude wines
- Cooking class at Andeluna Winery, including wine pairing and breathtaking views of the Andes
- Optional visit to Salentein’s art gallery or a vineyard walk at sunset
Day 3: full-day mountain ranch experience
- Full-day excursion to Rancho ‘e Cuero: horseback riding, wildlife spotting, scenic picnic and traditional Argentine barbecue
- Return to Mendoza via scenic Route 89
Where to stay in Uco Valley: boutique hotels and vineyard lodges
Staying overnight in Uco Valley allows you to truly unwind and enjoy the area at your own pace. Top options include:
- Casa de Uco: A luxury vineyard resort with spa, restaurant and spectacular views.
- Auberge du Vin: Ideal for travelers seeking international-style comfort with mountain flair.
- Posada Salentein: Cozy and convenient for those visiting the Salentein estate and Killka art gallery.
- Postales Hotel Boutique: A peaceful retreat perfect for couples.
- Finca La Azul: Rustic-chic charm with its own on-site restaurant and mountain-facing pool.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during harvest season and long weekends.
Uco Valley activities: experience comparison chart
| Activity | Approx. Price (USD) | Gear Required | Type of Experience | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wine tour with gourmet lunch | 500 | Included | Premium wine tourism | Year-round |
| Cooking class at Andeluna | 380 | Included | Culinary & cultural | Year-round |
| Horseback riding & country day | 550 | Comfortable clothes | Nature & adventure | Oct – Apr |
| Biking through vineyards with gourmet lunch | 500 | Bike included | Active & scenic | Oct – May |
Architecture and sustainability: Uco Valley’s signature traits
Wineries in Uco Valley are not just about wine—they’re also about design. From concrete and stone buildings that blend into the Andes to underground cellars and panoramic tasting rooms, places like Zuccardi, Salentein and SuperUco redefine how we experience wine.
Sustainability is a central focus, with initiatives such as:
- Solar energy and efficient irrigation
- Biodynamic farming and minimal intervention winemaking
- Organic certifications and fair-trade practices
- Regenerative tourism programs and local community support
How to book your Uco Valley wine tour with SAK Wine & Travel
Whether you prefer a small-group tour or a fully private luxury itinerary, SAK Wine & Travel offers tailor-made experiences with bilingual guides, premium vehicles, snacks, water, top winery reservations and complete coordination.
Booking with a specialized local agency gives you access to exclusive experiences, guaranteed availability at top wineries, and peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of.
When to visit Uco Valley and what to keep in mind
- Harvest season (March): perfect for travelers who want to witness grape picking and wine festivals
- Spring (October–December): green vineyards, pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Winter (June–August): snowy landscapes, a quieter atmosphere and better availability
Pro tip: Most wineries do not serve dinner. If you’re planning to stay overnight in Uco Valley, book early at places like Casa de Uco, Gaia or Auberge du Vin, which offer evening dining.
Download your free Mendoza wineries guide
Want to plan your Uco Valley wine tour with all the right tools? Download SAK’s free guide, packed with updated winery recommendations, maps, seasonal tips, and everything you need to build the perfect itinerary.
[Download the complete guide here]