Argentina offers the ultimate luxury experience for wine and art enthusiasts, making it an essential destination for those with a passion for both. Moreover, it should be included on the bucket lists of wine and art enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike as it presents abundant opportunities for action and outdoor exploration.
​
When embarking on your journey to Argentina's wine country, your likely point of entry will be Buenos Aires, often referred to as the "Paris of South America." Both Buenos Aires and Paris exude a shared passion for wine and art. While Buenos Aires may not boast iconic institutions like the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, or the Grand Palais, it stands as the home to South America's most exceptional museums.
Your first stop should be the MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires), an extraordinary museum featuring works from a myriad of renowned Latin American artists, including Antonio Berni, Frida Kahlo, Tarsila do Amaral, and Jorge de la Vega. Situated adjacent to the beautiful Palermo Park, this museum offers an unparalleled experience.
​
Another gem is the MAMBA (Buenos Aires Museum of Modern Art), a relatively new and undiscovered museum located in the trendy art district of San Telmo. Housed within a converted tobacco factory, MAMBA sheds light on emerging young artists. In 2018, the museum underwent expansion, doubling its original size, and reopened with a distinct Argentine perspective on modern art.
​
For those seeking a different kind of artistic encounter, exploring the neighborhoods of Buenos Aires presents a captivating opportunity. The vibrant street art that adorns the city's walls showcases its rich culture and liveliness. Moreover, the architectural landscape boasts a captivating fusion of Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Modern designs, inviting admiration at every turn.
​
Alternatively, a visit to the world-renowned Recoleta Cemetery is an unforgettable experience. This grandiose cemetery serves as a tribute to life, boasting extraordinary murals, statues, and architectural marvels. It is the final resting place of former presidents, Nobel Prize laureates, and the beloved former first lady and cultural icon, Eva Perón.
After a morning or afternoon of fine art, perhaps you're ready for a bespoke wine tasting. Undoubtedly, the Malbecs produced in Mendoza command widespread attention, capturing the hearts of wine enthusiasts. While Mendoza produces the vast majority of wines, about 40% comes from vineyards sourced from other provinces, including Catamarca, La Rioja, Rio Negro and San Juan.
​
Mendoza's Malbec grapes flourish at an altitude exceeding 3,000 feet in the majestic Andes Mountains. This high elevation contributes to the creation of a dry wine with an enticing bouquet of cherry and robust fruity flavors. Alongside Malbec, Mendoza is also known for producing exceptional red wines such as Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, which pair magnificently with beef and lamb dishes.
​
Not to be outdone, Mendoza's white wines have received numerous accolades. With more than 1,200 wineries in the region, Mendoza proudly showcases some of the world's finest Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc varieties.
​
As Argentina's second-largest wine producer, San Juan shares a similar viticultural landscape with Mendoza. Here, Malbec and Syrah dominate the grape cultivation. Additionally, San Juan distinguishes itself with its sherry-style fortified wine, a remarkable specialty of this Andean province. Moreover, San Juan serves as the foundation for Argentina's brandy and vermouth production.