Uco Valley Tours and Tickets

The Uco Valley is one of the five main wine-growing areas within Argentina’s world-famous Mendoza wine region. One of the fastest-growing wine areas, it is known for its high-altitude cool-climate wines, notably Malbec. The valley is about a 70-minute drive south of Mendoza in the foothills of the Andes.

Several factors combine to give the Uco Valley its unique and sought-after terroir. The dry, cool-climate terrain, watered by fresh Andean meltwater and characterized by hot days and frosty nights, provides the ideal grape-growing conditions. The Uco Valley also has Mendoza’s highest vineyards—up to 3,900 feet (1,200 meters).

Mendoza is best known for its red wines, of which Malbec is the star. The Uco Valley is celebrated for its deep, fruity Malbecs. Other grapes cultivated in the region include cabernet sauvignon, syrah, bonarda, cabernet franc, pinot noir, and white varietals, including sauvignon blanc and chardonnay.

Yes. The Uco Valley is a popular destination for Mendoza wine tours, and most full-day itineraries visit two or three wineries. Many Uco Valley wineries offer guided wine tastings, while some offer vineyard tours. Hop-on hop-off bus tours also visit the Uco Valley, stopping at five wineries.

There are more than 20 wineries (bodegas) in the Uco Valley, many of which open their doors to visitors for tours and wine tastings. Notable wineries include Piedra Negra, Monteviejo, Salentein, and international brands, including François Lurton, Altos Las Hormigas (Alberto Antonini), and Clos de los Siete (Michel Rolland).

Wine tours and tastings can be enjoyed in Mendoza year-round, but the most exciting time to visit is during the fall harvest. In the Uco Valley, the grape harvest begins in mid-February and continues until the end of April, when you’ll have the chance to see the winemakers in action.