San Juan (Argentina)

Discover San Juan’s Thriving Wine Scene

San Juan, Argentina’s second-largest wine-producing region, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and exceptional wines. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, this area boasts high-altitude vineyards and a rich winemaking tradition.

Towns and Villages

The city of San Juan serves as the region’s capital and main hub for wine tourism. Caucete and Zonda are notable wine-producing towns worth exploring.

  • San Juan: Visit the Plaza 25 de Mayo and the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista
  • Caucete: Home to several boutique wineries
  • Zonda: Known for its picturesque vineyards and outdoor activities

Wine Producers

San Juan boasts a diverse range of wineries, from small family-owned estates to large-scale producers. Some notable wineries include:

  • Graffigna Wines: One of Argentina’s oldest wineries, founded in 1870
  • Callia Wines: Known for their Syrah and Malbec blends
  • Finca Las Moras: Offers a wide variety of wines and beautiful vineyard views
  • Bodegas y Viñedos Casa Montes: Specializes in organic and biodynamic wines

Winery Tours

Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings. Book in advance, especially during peak season (October to April).

Accommodations

San Juan offers a range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Consider these wine-focused accommodations:

  • Hotel Viñas de Cafayate Wine Resort: Luxurious rooms with vineyard views
  • Posada del Vino: Charming boutique hotel in a restored colonial mansion
  • Finca Arriba: Rural guesthouse surrounded by vineyards

Dining

San Juan’s culinary scene showcases local ingredients and pairs perfectly with regional wines. Try these restaurants for an authentic experience:

  • La Esquina de A. Palma: Traditional Argentinian cuisine with an extensive wine list
  • Restaurante Del Bono: Upscale dining featuring local specialties and wine pairings
  • La Marchigiana: Family-owned restaurant known for its homemade pasta and regional wines

Local Specialties

Don’t miss trying locro (a hearty stew) and empanadas sanjuaninas (local-style empanadas) paired with a glass of Syrah or Torrontés.

Wine Shops & Bars

San Juan offers several options for wine enthusiasts to explore local vintages:

  • Vinoteca San Juan: Extensive selection of regional wines and knowledgeable staff
  • Bar de Vinos: Cozy wine bar featuring local labels and tapas
  • La Cava de Zonda: Wine shop with a tasting room, located in the Zonda Valley

Tasting Tips

Many shops offer free tastings on weekends. Ask about lesser-known local varieties like Bonarda and Torrontés.

Other Shops

While in San Juan, pick up some local specialties:

  • Mercado Público: Fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products
  • Feria Artesanal: Handcrafted souvenirs and regional textiles
  • Dulces del Valle: Traditional sweets and preserves made with local fruits

Attractions

Beyond wineries, San Juan offers diverse attractions:

  • Ischigualasto Provincial Park: UNESCO World Heritage site known as “Valley of the Moon”
  • Quebrada de Zonda: Scenic canyon perfect for hiking and picnicking
  • Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes Franklin Rawson: Art museum showcasing Argentine artists

Outdoor Activities

Try horseback riding through vineyards or white-water rafting on the San Juan River.

Events

San Juan’s calendar is filled with wine-related events:

  • Fiesta Nacional del Sol (February): Celebrates local culture with parades, music, and wine tastings
  • Vendimia de San Juan (March): Annual grape harvest festival with traditional ceremonies
  • Expo Delicatessen & Vinos (October): Showcases regional wines and gourmet products

Insider Tip

Book accommodations early for major events, as they attract visitors from across Argentina.

Appellations

San Juan’s main wine-producing regions include:

  • Tulum Valley: Known for full-bodied reds and aromatic whites
  • Zonda Valley: Produces high-altitude wines with intense flavors
  • Pedernal Valley: Emerging region known for premium wines

Wine Tours

Consider a guided tour to explore multiple appellations in one day. Many tour operators offer customizable itineraries.

Grape Varieties

San Juan’s wine industry thrives on a diverse range of grape varieties. Syrah and Malbec dominate red wine production, while Torrontés leads white wine varieties.

  • Reds: Syrah, Malbec, Bonarda, Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Whites: Torrontés, Chardonnay, Viognier

Main Wine Styles

San Juan produces a variety of wine styles, reflecting its unique terroir and winemaking traditions. Full-bodied reds and aromatic whites are regional specialties.

  • Bold, fruit-forward Syrah
  • Elegant, high-altitude Malbec
  • Floral and crisp Torrontés
  • Rich, oak-aged Chardonnay

Food Specialties

San Juan’s cuisine complements its wines perfectly. Local dishes often feature grilled meats and fresh produce from the region.

  • Asado: Traditional Argentine barbecue
  • Humita: Corn-based dish wrapped in corn husks
  • Empanadas: Savory pastries with various fillings
  • Dulce de membrillo: Quince paste, often served with cheese

Drives & Walks

Explore San Juan’s picturesque landscapes through scenic drives and walks. The region offers breathtaking views of vineyards and mountains.

Scenic Drives

  • Ruta del Vino: Wine route through Tulum and Zonda Valleys
  • Calingasta Valley: Mountain views and high-altitude vineyards

Walks

  • Parque Provincial Ischigualasto: Unique rock formations and fossils
  • Leoncito National Park: Stargazing and hiking trails

Itineraries

Plan your San Juan wine adventure with these tailored itineraries. Each route offers a mix of wine tasting, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

3-Day Wine Explorer

  • Day 1: Tulum Valley wineries and San Juan city tour
  • Day 2: Zonda Valley wine tasting and local cuisine
  • Day 3: Calingasta Valley scenic drive and high-altitude vineyards

5-Day San Juan Discovery

  • Days 1-2: Wine tasting in Tulum and Zonda Valleys
  • Day 3: Ischigualasto Provincial Park excursion
  • Day 4: Calingasta Valley wineries and scenery
  • Day 5: San Juan city tour and final wine shopping

Getting There & Around

San Juan is accessible by air and road. The main airport is Domingo Faustino Sarmiento Airport, located 15 km from the city center.

  • Fly: Direct flights from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities
  • Drive: Route 40 connects San Juan to neighboring provinces
  • Bus: Long-distance buses available from major cities

Within the region, renting a car is ideal for exploring vineyards. Taxis and remises (private cars) are available in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

San Juan’s wine country is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences.

  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities
  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot days, ideal for cooling off with white wines
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Harvest season, festivals, and stunning foliage
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cooler temperatures, great for red wine tasting

Sustainability Efforts

San Juan’s wine industry is embracing sustainable practices. Many wineries are adopting eco-friendly methods to preserve the region’s unique terroir.

  • Water conservation techniques in vineyards
  • Solar energy use in wineries
  • Organic and biodynamic farming practices
  • Local biodiversity preservation initiatives

Language Tips

While Spanish is the primary language, many in the tourism industry speak some English. Learning a few key phrases can enhance your experience.

  • Vino tinto: Red wine
  • Vino blanco: White wine
  • Bodega: Winery
  • Salud: Cheers
  • ¿Dónde está la bodega?: Where is the winery?

Further Resources

For more information on San Juan’s wine region, consult these resources: