Experiences with Cycling and Winery Tours in Mendoza
In the heart of Argentina's wine region, Mendoza, an unforgettable bike tour awaits. For an affordable price of 70 pesos per day, thanks to Mr Hugo's bike rentals, you can explore the vineyards and olive oil factories of Maipú.
The adventure begins on a quiet, dusty street lined with trees, leading to Entre Olivos, a small olive oil factory. Here, an olive oil tasting is offered, featuring various oils, mustards, aji, olive pastes, homemade jams, chocolates, and a selection of liquors. The owner's generosity extends to double shots of two liquor flavours of choice.
After the olive oil tasting, the bike tour continues to Trapiche, the largest vineyard in town. Although a tour and three wine tastings cost 50 pesos per person, it's worth visiting for its towering mansion-like main building and neatly manicured grounds.
For a more authentic family vineyard experience, consider visiting Domiciano, one of the two biggest vineyards in Maipu. Only about two hundred bottles of the prize malbec are made each year here. The tour includes a visit to the vineyard's cellar where the prize malbec is aging in oak barrels.
If you're looking for something off the beaten path, Bodega Santa Julia and Bodega Richitelli are top recommendations. Santa Julia, a family-style winery, offers approachable, everyday table wines and olive oil tastings, providing a warm, informal atmosphere. Richitelli, an innovative, family-run winery, is noted for its organic and experimental wines, beautiful modern architecture, and excellent cuisine.
The day's cycling concludes in the town itself, where lunch is had in the garden behind Entre Olivos, surrounded by olive trees. Before returning the bikes to Mr Hugo's, don't forget to stop by La Botella for a wine tasting. For just 20 pesos, you'll receive five tastings, bread, and olive oil. Three bottles of wine can be purchased from La Botella's store manager for 100 pesos.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to explore Mendoza, this bike tour offers a memorable experience in Argentina's wine region.
Exploring Mendoza's lifestyle and food-and-drink scene is an integral part of this bike tour, as it takes travelers to various vineyards and olive oil factories. Tasting local liquors, wines, and olive oils is a significant aspect of the journey, such as the olive oil tasting at Entre Olivos or the wine tasting at La Botella.
