Maipú Wine Region
Maipú
A traditional wine region just 30 minutes from the city center. With flat terrain, cycling links together wineries, olive oil mills and chocolate workshops.
Maipú lies about 15 kilometers southeast of Mendoza city and is one of the earliest wine regions in Mendoza, where many century-old wineries were founded. At an elevation of about 700–800 meters, it is known for traditional-style Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. The most popular activity among backpackers is bike wine touring. Take a bus or light rail to the Coquimbito area of Maipú, then rent a bike from a local rental shop (common names include Mr. Hugo and Maipú Bikes). They provide maps and can book wineries on your behalf. Ride along the flat Urquiza road, and you can visit three or four wineries in a day, with about one hour per tasting. Common stops include century-old family wineries, the wine museum at La Rural winery, which displays antique winemaking equipment, olive oil workshops where you can taste extra virgin olive oil and olive tapenade, and small workshops that make absinthe, liqueurs and chocolate. Tastings cost about 10–30 US dollars per winery, and most require advance reservations. Most wineries are closed on Sundays. Safety note: Traffic shares the road, so slow down after drinking, and wear a helmet, carry water and use sunscreen. If you'd rather not cycle, you can join a half-day winery tour with transfers included. Coordinates are taken from the center of Maipú town.
Opening hours
Most wineries open Mon–Sat, approx. 09:30–17:30 (reservation required)
Nearby sights
- Bodega Trapiche
- Bodega La Rural & Wine Museum
- Foundational Area Museum & San Francisco Ruins
- Plaza España, Mendoza
- Plaza Independencia, Mendoza
- Mendoza Central Market
- Luján de Cuyo Wine Region
- Avenida Arístides Villanueva