Tunuyán

A charming wine town south of Mendoza in the Valle de Uco region, surrounded by modern wineries and vineyards known for quality production. The area offers wine tastings, adventure activities like horseback riding and zip-lining, and a more relaxed, authentic wine country atmosphere than nearby touristy areas.

Things to do

• Wine Tasting at Bodega Salentein — Tour the modern winery's vineyards and taste award-winning Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon while enjoying views of the Andes mountains.
• Horseback Riding Through Vineyards — Explore the Valle de Uco region on horseback with local guides who lead rides past working vineyards and rural estancias.
• Visit Bodega O. Fournier — Experience contemporary architecture and biodynamic wine production at this innovative winery with tastings of their signature Malbecs.
• Zip-lining Adventure Park — Navigate canopy courses and zip lines through the natural landscape south of town for an adrenaline-filled afternoon.
• Tunuyán Town Plaza Exploration — Stroll through the relaxed town center with its colonial-era buildings, local restaurants, and genuine wine-country atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
• Off-Road Mountain Biking — Take guided mountain bike tours through the foothills and vineyard trails with varying difficulty levels and stunning Andean views.

Food to try

• Asado with Local Wine Pairing — Grilled lamb or beef prepared over an open fire and paired with a Tunuyán Malbec at a traditional parrilla restaurant.
• Empanadas Mendocinas — Meat-filled pastries baked fresh daily using traditional recipes, best enjoyed warm from local bakeries or restaurants.
• Cazuela de Cordero — A slow-cooked lamb stew with potatoes, served in earthenware bowls and commonly found at rural estancia dining experiences.
• Chivo Guisado — Braised goat meat stewed with tomatoes and spices, a regional specialty reflecting the area's pastoral heritage.
• Fresh River Trout — Caught locally from the Tunuyán River and grilled simply with butter and fresh herbs at farm-to-table restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Siesta Culture is Real — Many small shops and services close from 12:30 to 4:00 PM for lunch and rest; plan activities accordingly and embrace the slower pace.
• Spanish is Primary Language — English is limited outside major wineries, so learning basic Spanish phrases or carrying a translation app will enhance interactions with locals.
• Harvest Season (February-March) Brings Energy — Visit during vendimia (harvest) to witness active vineyard work, participate in harvest celebrations, and meet winemakers during their busiest season.
• Wine Tastings Follow Ritual — Expect formal tasting protocols at wineries with specific glasses for reds and whites; respect the tradition and ask questions—locals appreciate genuine interest in their craft.