Luján de Cuyo is often referred to as the "Land of Malbec." Here, the altitude hovers between 800 and 1,000 meters above sea level, which gives wines structure and complexity. The region’s rocky soils and long, sunny days help the grapes develop full-bodied flavors, especially the Malbec.

What to Taste:

• Malbec: Mendoza's superstar. Expect rich dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum, with subtle hints of cocoa and spices.

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Luján de Cuyo also excels with bold and tannic Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a nice contrast to its Malbecs.

Must-try wineries in this region include:

• Catena Zapata: A historic winery famous for elevating Argentine Malbec to world fame. Their wines, particularly from the Adrianna Vineyard, are a global benchmark.

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  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5

Maipú, the eastern neighbor of Luján de Cuyo, is one of Mendoza’s oldest wine-growing areas. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional winemaking and modern techniques. With altitudes slightly lower than in Luján, the wines are known for their earthy, robust flavors, often with a softer tannin profile.

What to Taste:

• Bonarda: Maipú is a great place to try Argentina’s lesser-known red grape. Bonarda wines are juicy, fruit-forward, and very approachable.

• Tempranillo: While Tempranillo is usually associated with Spain, Maipú produces a unique, spicy version of the grape.

Wineries to check out:

• Trapiche: One of the oldest and largest wineries in Argentina, with a strong emphasis on both tradition and innovation. Their single-vineyard Malbecs are particularly noteworthy.

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  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5

The Uco Valley is the rising star of Mendoza’s wine scene. Situated about 90 minutes south of Mendoza city, Uco’s higher altitude (up to 1,500 meters) and cooler climate make for wines with more acidity, freshness, and minerality. This region has garnered international attention for producing some of Argentina’s most elegant and refined wines.

What to Taste:

• Chardonnay: The cool climate of Uco Valley results in crisp and complex Chardonnay, with flavors of green apple, citrus, and a stony minerality.

• Cabernet Franc: If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Cabernet Francs from Uco Valley are gaining a reputation for their finesse and aromatic complexity.

• Malbec: Of course, Uco Valley produces stunning Malbecs too, but these tend to be more mineral-driven, with brighter acidity and red fruit notes than the richer, more robust styles of Luján de Cuyo.

Some top wineries in the Uco Valley include:

• Zuccardi: Voted the best vineyard in the world, Zuccardi is a must-visit. Their high-altitude Malbecs and innovative blends are some of the best expressions of the region’s terroir.

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  • TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5

Let’s start with the headliner. While Malbec originated in France, it found its true home in Mendoza. The high altitude of the region allows the grapes to develop thick skins, leading to wines with bold fruit flavors and soft, silky tannins. Mendoza’s Malbecs are known for their deep purple color, aromas of dark fruits like blackberries and plums, and subtle notes of violets and spices. The best Malbecs also exhibit a balanced acidity that makes them surprisingly versatile when it comes to food pairing.

Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in Mendoza’s climate, particularly in Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley. These wines are often big and bold, with ripe blackcurrant flavors, tobacco, and earthy undertones. While not as famous as Mendoza’s Malbec, the region’s Cabernet Sauvignon is definitely worth exploring for those who like their reds with a bit more structure and power.

Though not as common as the reds, Torrontés is Mendoza’s signature white grape. Originally from northern Argentina, it has made a name for itself in the Uco Valley. Torrontés wines are aromatic and floral, with notes of jasmine, orange blossom, and citrus. It’s a light, refreshing wine that is perfect for sipping on a hot day or pairing with lighter dishes like ceviche or salads.

Bonarda is Argentina’s second most planted red grape, though it’s far less famous internationally. In Mendoza, Bonarda produces medium-bodied wines with juicy, red fruit flavors and soft tannins. It’s a great wine to enjoy young and is often seen as an everyday wine for locals.