Zuccardi Valle de Uco and Its Family Legacy
Located in the heart of Uco Valley, in Paraje Altamira, San Carlos, Mendoza, Zuccardi Valle de Uco Winery is one of the most prominent names in Argentine wine worldwide. Founded by the Zuccardi family and currently led by Sebastián Zuccardi, the winery represents the perfect blend of terroir respect, scientific research, architectural innovation, and a family passion passed down through generations.
The Zuccardi Family: Tradition, Innovation, and Vision
The story began in the 1960s with Alberto Zuccardi, who implemented a drip irrigation system that revolutionized winemaking in the region. Today, the Zuccardi Valle de Uco family maintains that pioneering spirit, with a philosophy focused on site expression and parcel-based work.
Each wine is born as an interpretation of specific soils and altitudes, made using methods that prioritize authenticity over intervention. This constant pursuit has positioned Zuccardi as one of South America’s most prestigious producers.
International Recognition
Zuccardi Valle de Uco Winery has been named “World’s Best Vineyard” four times by World’s Best Vineyards (2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022). Additionally, its wines Finca Piedra Infinita Supercal and Finca Gravascal received 100 Parker points—a historic achievement for Argentine viticulture.
These accolades celebrate not only winemaking excellence but also the winery’s commitment to research, integrated architecture, and hospitality.
Piedra Infinita: Architecture in Harmony with the Landscape
The architecture of Zuccardi Valle de Uco, housed in the building known as Piedra Infinita, stands as a tribute to the surrounding landscape. Inspired by Uco Valley’s alluvial soils, the structure is built with local materials—mainly stone and raw concrete—without coatings or ornamental elements, resulting in a bold yet minimal aesthetic.
The building appears to rise from the earth and interacts with the Andean environment through its form and orientation. Natural light is used strategically to create atmospheres designed for both winemaking and contemplation. Vinification occurs by gravity in untreated concrete vats, allowing honest contact between wine and material, free from external influence. This architectural approach reflects not only function but a philosophy: deep respect for origin.
Terroir and Vineyards in Altamira
Zuccardi works exclusively with estate-grown grapes in Paraje Altamira, one of the most studied micro-regions in the world. The diversity of soils and elevations allows for wines that precisely express the identity of each parcel.
Guided tours allow visitors to walk through the vineyards, observe the geological layers, and understand how terroir shapes every glass.
Winemaking Philosophy
Zuccardi’s winemaking follows a clear principle: the goal is not to correct the wine but to accompany it. Fermentation is carried out with native yeasts, and the use of oak is minimal or nonexistent.
Each wine reflects the soil it comes from. This minimalist approach, combined with precision technology and scientific knowledge, has led Zuccardi to redefine the concept of Argentine wine.
Tastings: A High-Altitude Sensory Experience
Tastings are led by expert sommeliers and include labels such as Zuccardi Q, José Zuccardi, Concreto, Aluvional, and Finca. Visitors can choose from parcel tours, vertical tastings, or soil-profile flights depending on their interest.
Each experience is designed to connect the wine with its origin. Tastings are held in rooms overlooking the vineyards or in technical spaces beside the concrete vats, creating a contemplative and educational setting. Some sessions include microvinification samples, vintage comparisons, and pairings with seasonal bites, making each visit an opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of terroir and winemaking philosophy.
Piedra Infinita Restaurant: Cuisine of the Land
The Zuccardi Valle de Uco restaurant, Piedra Infinita Cocina, offers a seasonal tasting menu deeply rooted in Uco Valley’s agricultural landscape. The cuisine blends contemporary techniques with traditional knowledge and highlights regional ingredients such as farmed trout, Andean mushrooms, artisanal cheeses, mountain herbs, quinoa, local legumes, and grass-fed meats.
Each dish is designed to emphasize seasonality, origin, and pairing with specific wines from the winery. The result is a harmonious experience where wine and cuisine engage in an authentic Mendoza dialogue.
Sustainability as a Core Commitment
From its inception, Zuccardi has embraced a holistic sustainability model: chemical-free farming, native plant cover, solar energy, water reuse, and gravity-fed winemaking.
A key pillar is responsible water management—vital in Mendoza’s desert climate. The winery uses high-efficiency drip systems and recirculation treatments to reduce waste.
The building is designed with bioclimatic principles that limit artificial climate control, and photovoltaic energy powers much of the operation. This approach is reinforced by traceability across every stage of production and national and international certifications in environmental and labor practices.
The winery’s architecture minimizes ecological and visual impact, and sourcing from local providers supports the surrounding community. Zuccardi is now a global reference in regenerative viticulture.
Location and How to Book
The winery is located in Paraje Altamira, Zuccardi Valle de Uco San Carlos Mendoza, about 100 km from Mendoza City. Access is via paved road, and advance booking is essential to secure a spot for tastings or dining.
Zuccardi Valle de Uco reservations can be made online or through specialized agencies like SAK Wine & Travel, which offer transportation, guided visits, and personalized service.
Complementary Activities and Nearby Wineries
For those seeking a complete wine tourism experience, there are several nearby wineries worth visiting:
- Finca Piedra Negra: High-altitude wines and an organic philosophy
- Bodega Corazon del Sol: Specializes in Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre
- Bodega Sophenia: Known for blind tastings and views of Mount Tupungato
- Domaine Bousquet: A pioneer in organic wines with vegan menus
Additional activities include:
- Vineyard walks
- Cooking classes with regional ingredients
- Horseback riding or guided cycling tours
Booking these experiences through an agency ensures availability, efficient logistics, and a high-end service level.
A Journey That Transcends Wine
Visitors to Zuccardi encounter a breathtaking natural setting: the Andes in the foreground, perfectly aligned vineyard rows, and a winery that seems to emerge from the land itself.
The photos of Zuccardi Valle de Uco captured by guests and the media reflect an aesthetic that fuses nature, human craftsmanship, and enological excellence.
Every detail at Zuccardi Valle de Uco is designed to honor its place. Whether in a glass of wine, a dish at the restaurant, or a stroll through the vineyards, visitors experience a sensory, cultural, and emotional journey that redefines wine tourism in Argentina.
