Bicycles and Vines of Mendoza
In the heart of Mendoza, Argentina, wine enthusiasts can embark on an unforgettable wine bike tour, exploring the picturesque vineyards of Maipu. Here's a guide to some family-run vineyards that offer affordable and authentic experiences.
## Family-Run Vineyards in Maipu
1. **Bodegas López** - Located in Maipú, Mendoza, Bodegas López is a family-owned vineyard that has been in operation for 122 years. The comprehensive tour takes visitors through the production process, ending with a wine tasting led by a knowledgeable guide. Private visits are available, though lunch is only served Thursday through Sunday.
2. **Bodega Santa Julia** - Although not exclusively in Maipu, Santa Julia is a must-visit winery in nearby Luján de Cuyo. Known for its informal atmosphere and affordable, everyday wines, the vineyard also produces olive oil and offers tastings. Santa Julia is accessible by bike, depending on your starting point.
For a quintessential Argentine wine experience in Maipu itself, Bodegas López is a top choice.
## Additional Tips for Wine Bike Tours
- **Equipment**: Ensure you have a reliable bike suitable for the terrain. - **Guided Tours**: Consider hiring a local guide familiar with the area who can provide insights into the vineyards. - **Safety**: Be mindful of traffic and road conditions, especially if biking near main roads.
## Tour Details
The Mendoza Wine Bike Tour took place on a crisp, sunny, and clear autumn day. The tour started in Maipu and included visits to Trapiche, Domiciano, and Entre Olivos.
Trapiche, the largest vineyard in Mendoza, resembles a well-maintained estate with a grand main building. The tour, conducted in Spanish, included a visit to the vineyard and a wine tasting for 50 pesos per person. The tour also included a visit to Entre Olivos, a small olive oil factory, where a tasting was provided.
Domiciano, one of the two biggest vineyards in town, offered a tour and wine tasting for the same price.
## Bike Rentals and Discounts
Mr Hugo's, a bike rental company, offers bike rentals for 70 pesos per day, inclusive of a free bottle of wine, a map, and discount cards for some vineyards. Mrs Hugo even provided a discount card for a free wine tasting at La Botella.
La Botella offers wine tastings at 20 pesos each, which include five tastings, bread, and olive oil. If you're looking for a more extensive tasting experience, consider visiting the vineyard's store manager who offers three bottles of his homemade wine for 100 pesos.
The bike tour can potentially span two days due to the numerous vineyards in the Mendoza area. The bus ride from Mendoza city centre to Maipu takes approximately 30 minutes and costs about 4.50 pesos each way. Bus 171, 172, or 173 can be taken from number 10 bus stops in Mendoza, with the driver instructed to stop at Mr Hugo's.
For those looking to extend their tour beyond Maipu, consider visiting Bodega Richitelli, known for its innovative wines, located in a broader region around Mendoza. Alternatively, explore other regions like Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco, which offer a wide range of wineries and scenic routes perfect for biking.
Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, Maipu, Mendoza, offers a wine bike tour experience that caters to all tastes and budgets.
To immerse in a unique blend of travel, lifestyle, food-and-drink, and travel amidst the vineyards of Maipu in Mendoza, Argentina, explore family-run vineyards such as Bodegas López for an authentic and affordable wine tasting experience or Bodega Santa Julia in Luján de Cuyo for a wider range of wine, olive oil, and insightful tours. When planning your bike tour, ensure you have a reliable bike, consider hiring a local guide, and be mindful of road conditions for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
