In Mendoza, wine is intertwined with the mountains, and hospitality is inseparable from emotion. This region – the heart of Argentine viticulture and a proud member of the Great Wine Capitals – has redefined luxury from its roots: the land. Far from ostentatious codes, value here is found in the quiet of a barrel, in the texture of a well-crafted Malbec, or in the warmth of a host welcoming guests as if to their own cellar.
Mendoza is not only the cradle of Argentine wine – it is now a globally recognised destination. It boasts 10 vineyards and wineries ranked among the world’s 100 best, according to World’s Best Vineyards, and an elite culinary scene: 24 restaurants recommended by the Michelin Guide, including six Michelin Stars and five Green Stars for their commitment to sustainability. In addition, over 45 Mendoza-based wineries and restaurants have been awarded as Regional and Global Winners by Great Wine Capitals in recent years. This level of excellence is no coincidence – it is the result of a community dedicated to authenticity, innovation, and environmental respect.
From North to South: A Journey to Awaken the Senses
The wineries are presented according to a journey from North to South in each sub-region. We invite you to discover them along the way!
Primera Zona: Luján de Cuyo and Maipú
This is where the story begins. In these century-old vineyards, one breathes both legacy and vision.
Durigutti Family Winemakers
Founded by brothers Héctor and Pablo Durigutti, this winery is ranked in the global top 10 by World’s Best Vineyards. Its restaurant, 5 Suelos, led by renowned chef Patricia Courtois, offers a farm-to-table cuisine rooted in garden produce and heartfelt recipes. As Héctor Durigutti explains:
“We were pioneers in championing the Las Compuertas GI, rescuing century-old vineyards and promoting sustainable viticulture that honours the terroir’s history to place it on the global wine map as an oasis of prestige and quality.”
Each visit here is an immersion into local identity and a genuine connection with the land.
5 Suelos restaurant by Durigutti
Catena Zapata
An undisputed icon of Argentine viticulture, Catena Zapata blends scientific research, monumental architecture, and visionary thinking. Its restaurant, Angélica Zapata, has revolutionised the concept of food and wine pairing: wine takes the lead, and cuisine follows at an ultra-premium level. Laura Catena puts it succinctly:
“Terroir is fundamental – there is no wine without terroir, and terroir defines the taste of each wine.”
Interactive experiences such as Wine and Music and blending sessions make each visit a sensory and emotional journey.
Catena Zapata
Uco Valley: Where the Andes Become Wine
As the journey moves south, the landscape rises – and so does the emotion.
DiamAndes
A member of Clos de los Siete and sister company to the prestigious Château Malartic Lagravière in Bordeaux, DiamAndes embodies Franco-Andean elegance. Its modern, minimalist architecture is as striking as its gourmet offering in DIAM’S restaurant and its 12-step Chef’s Table experience.
“We blend French elegance with Andean character, and each visit is tailored to leave a lasting impression.” – Veronique Bonnie
The natural setting, vineyards at 1,100 metres, and architectural artistry make the visit a truly contemporary luxury.
DiamAndes Panoramic View – ©Belen Gil
Zuccardi Valle de Uco
Repeatedly recognised as the World’s Best Vineyard, Zuccardi is the epitome of avant-garde. Its Piedra Infinita Cocina restaurant and architecture, seamlessly integrated into breathtaking mountain landscapes, allow guests to experience Uco Valley’s terroir in every glass and dish. As Julia Zuccardi affirms:
“We’re not trying to make the best Malbec – we’re trying to interpret the place.”
Zuccardi Vineyards
Salentein
A landmark in architecture, art, and gastronomy, Salentein delivers one of Mendoza’s most complete and sophisticated experiences. Its tasting menu is regarded among the best in the country, marrying high-level culinary techniques with wines that express the DNA of Uco Valley. The winery includes multiple venues, a 1,000 m² art gallery, and is quite literally embedded in the Andes.
“Luxury is transcending the glass and connecting with something greater.” – Francisco Bragoni, Hospitality Manager
Salentein artistic landmark
Huentala Wines
Located in Gualtallary, Huentala is a pioneer in combining monumental art with wine tourism. Its La Isabel Estate is home to giant sculptures – such as the iconic ant and fox family – which captivate visitors of all ages. It also boasts the first urban wine hotel in the Americas, Hualta Winery Hotel, and offers hands-on harvest experiences.
“The rise of luxury tourism has strengthened our offering. Visitors seek authenticity, exclusivity, and quality – values embedded in Huentala Wines’ DNA.”
Huentala Wines – ©Gabriela Pellegrino.
What the Wineries Have to Say
The responses included in this article come directly from the individuals who shape the experience. When asked what makes their proposition unique, they spoke of terroir, long-term vision, sustainability, and emotional memory. The consensus is clear: Mendoza’s luxury is built on the coherence between what is cultivated, what is communicated, and what is lived.
As Héctor Durigutti expresses:
“Wine, land, gastronomy, and hospitality are in dialogue, offering a soulful experience far from the standardised.”
And as Laura Catena emphasises:
“The best way to create ambassadors for Mendoza is to welcome them to our wineries. Each visit is an opportunity to convey the passion and unique character of our land.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Wineries recognise that the growth of luxury tourism brings challenges: the need to professionalise teams, maintain authenticity, and address seasonality. But the opportunities are vast: internationalisation, the development of premium experiences, and the consolidation of Mendoza as a world-class destination.
Conclusion: A Great Wine Capital with Soul and a Future
Mendoza doesn’t need to shout. Its luxury is whispered among snow-capped mountains, discovered in an intimate sunset tasting or during a stroll through ancestral vines. The visitor who comes for the wine stays for the emotion. And those who return do so because they’ve realised that here, luxury is not measured in stars, but in unforgettable experiences.
Would you like to plan your next wine and luxury experience in Mendoza?
📩 Get in touch via my website and let me help you design a unique journey: marialauraortiz.com/winelux
This article is the result of a collaboration between Winelux Business Insider and Great Wine Capitals.
Wine & Luxury Strategist | Founder of Winelux
Brand Ambassador Argentina – International Wine Challenge
Academy Chair – The World’s Best Vineyards
Commandeur d’Honneur – Commanderie du Bontemps
Member of the Experts Panel & Official Correspondent for Great Wine Capitals
Photos provided by María Laura Ortiz Chiavetta