An Andes Food & Wine Adventure in Mendoza

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8 days | 7 nights

Mendoza’s Bodega Wineries and Wine Country Cooking

Mendoza, Argentina is certainly one of the most dynamic, rapidly emerging wine countries in the world. Bursting onto the international stage in recent years, the wines from Mendoza have garnered increasing international attention for both their world class quality and exceptional value. Argentine cuisine is distinctive in South America because of the strong influence of Spanish, Italian and French styles of food. This package includes diverse activities such as; golfing, horseback riding, outdoor barbeque cooking classes, and trekking in the Andes.

An Andes Food & Wine Adventure in Mendoza

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Itinerary Accommodations Map FAQ

VACATION HIGHLIGHTS

Please note: Our tours are designed with flexible itineraries to accommodate seasonality and desired dates of travel.

•7 Nights Deluxe Accommodations

•Round-Trip Airport Transfers

•Chef’s Tasting Dinner & Wine Pairing

•Cooking in the Vineyard Class

•Olive Oil and Wine Tasting

•Benegas Winery Tour and Tasting

•Estancias BBQ Cooking Class

•Valle de Uco Winery & Cooking Class

•Andeluna Cellars Tour and Tasting

•Three Agrelo Tour with Wine Lunch

•Mendoza City Tour

•Verolio Lunch & Olive Oil Tasting

•Wine Country Cooking Class

•Vistalba Winery Tour & Tasting

AVAILABLE DATES

Year-Round Based on Your Preferred Dates

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Please note: Actual itineraries are subject to change due to seasonality.

(click item for details)

Day 1

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Round-Trip Transfers from Mendoza Airport

You will be met upon arrival at the Mendoza Airport. A private transfer to your hotel will allow you to relax and begin to drink in the beautiful scenery and absorb the magic of the Andes. Upon arrival at the your hotel you will enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and have the opportunity to explore your surroundings. After lunch on your last day in Mendoza, you will be driven back to the Mendoza Airport for your return flight home.

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Arrival Chef’s Tasting Dinner with Wine Pairings

You will delight in your first culinary experience in this wonderland of food and wine. A specially designed menu by one of the region’s top chef’s will feature the best of Wine Country cuisine where dishes steeped in traditions of Argentina favor a new age flair while showcasing the finest and freshest ingredients from the area. Your dinner reservation has been made for you at 8:00pm. The chef will talk with you to design a menu that blends art and science to create dishes to stimulate and satisfy your discerning palate. Wines thoughtfully chosen from the vast collection of prestigious vineyards in the Mendoza region will provide you an unforgettable experience. Superb service, delightful cuisine and elegant ambience make your dinner an extraordinary experience.

Day 2

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Cooking in the Vineyards with Olive Oil & Wine Tasting

Learn the secrets of Argentine cuisine at the hand of one of its most renowned chefs. Enjoy an unforgettable experience lead by the staff of Terruño Restaurant and culinary school. The restaurant is housed in a renovated 19th century family vintner's home, surrounded by the original vineyard. You will prepare your own empanadas, learn about the different cuts of world famous Argentine beef and even try your hand at managing a traditional mud oven. You will learn three typical dishes and after the hands-on class will enjoy your own creations paired with Tapiz Wines. You will enjoy an olive oil and wine tasting and tour through the private art collection and organic vegetable garden.

Day 3

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Barbecue Cooking in Estancias (High Altitude Ranches)

Experience the solitude that only such of extension of land can offer, and be the exclusive guest of this magical and unique property. Depart the hotel for a scenic one-and half hour drive through the Andean foothills, at the foot of Cordon del Plata. A high altitude mountain ranch, the Estancia offers a glimpse into the life of the Andean countryside. Enjoy a traditional Argentine barbecue accompanied by top end wines from among the wineries visited throughout the wine tour of Mendoza. Horse-back riding and trekking through the mountains follows and the day finishes with the artisanal sweets and delicacies of the Estancia served in the late afternoon. You may even spot a condor in majestic flight around the mountains.

Day 4

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Winery Tour and Tasting, Benegas Winery

This traditional winery belonged to the family of Gladys Alurralde Norton, mother of current owner Federico J. Benegas Lynch. Federico was actually born in the properties main house, where he still lives to this day. Throughout his childhood he worked every step of the way, helping his father in the winemaking process. Benegas is focused on quality and celebrating its Finca Libertad terroir. They believe in the judicious use of oak, maintaining it as a background component in the wine. Tannins should be balanced and the finish long. Their total production is only 30,000 cases. Michelle Roland says, “Benegas wines have a strong personality which is the result of a very unique terroir for its quality and the combination of French and Argentine traditions. The wines are a reflection of Frederico’s passion and his constant search for excellence.”

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Verolio Restaurant Lunch and Olive Oil Tasting

This restaurant specializes in Olive oil and the menus are design to match 3 different varietals. Before lunch, your host will guide you through the qualities of olive oil and taste three varietals: Manzanilla, a delicate and light olive oil; Nevadillo, a fruity medium body olive oil and Arauco, a spicy medium body long finish intense olive oil.

Day 5

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Vistalba Winery

Carlos Pulenta was the former president and CEO of Salentein before leaving to start his own high-end operation in the Lujan de Cuyo. The recently constructed cellar is an elegant and tranquil facility constructed largely of marble, slate, inert concrete and dark woods. Pulenta owns 53 hectares of red grapes around the winery, 80% of which is Malbec planted in 1948 (the rest is newly planted Malbec, bonarda, merlot and cabernet sauvignon). The varietal wines labeled Tomero are made in stainless steel tanks and are all about fruit; they are sourced form Pulenta’s father’s 342 hectares of vines in the Uco Valley. The more serious Vistaba wines, from vineyards around the winery, are done in concrete and stainless steel. You will taste, and enjoy the fine offerings from this renowned winery. All wines are hand harvested.

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Valle de Uco: Winery Tour and Cooking Class

Nominated by Wine & Spirit as Winery of the Year in 2003, Bodegas Salentein offers visitors a unique combination of top quality wines and a breathtaking view of the Andes. Located at 4,000’ above sea level and literally at the foot of the Andes, this winery has received several international awards in recognition of its excellent wines. Visit the Kilken Art Gallery where you will find an outstanding collection of local art. Today's class is led by the Posada Salentei´s chef, Rodrigo. The chef will show us how to make some of the most typical dishes from Argentina. After the class enjoy your own culinary creations accompanied by the wines from the winery.

Day 6

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Agrelo Winery Tours, Gourmet Lunch & Wine Pairings

The Agrelo is the prime winery area, if there is a Napa Valley in Mendoza, this is it. Bodega Catena Zapata - Widely recognized as the pioneering winery which has shown the international wine community the true quality potential of the Mendoza terroir. Finca Decero Winery - Where each vine is nurtured by hand and the winemaking is without compromise. The creators have developed an approach that is sensitive and sustainable. This transcends into an excellent restaurant cuisine where you will enjoy a seasonal menu of local ingredients and international styles perfectly matched with Decero Wines. Caelum Winery - With a small production of 40,000 cases, this winery is now expanding their capacity to 90,000 for 2012.The beautiful and cozy winery is surrounded not only by vineyards, but also by pistachio trees. So, of course all tastings are accompanied by pistachios.

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Mendoza City Tour

You will experience an intimate tour of the city of Mendoza, from the picturesque settings of the city's many plazas, to the manicured grounds of Parque San Martin, to the extensive shopping experiences. You will be feeling at home in Mendoza's beautiful, tree-lined streets in no time! You will discover the history of Mendoza through the four main Plazas (Chile, San Martin, España and Italia). The highlight is the Parque San Martin, considered to be the most beautiful Public Park in all Latin America. Designed by Carlos Thays, the park was built in 1896. Today the park has an extension of 389 hectares, and contains valuable sculptures and monuments, an artificial lake, several pedestrian walks, and over 5000 roses. A walk through is a must, as you will discover the perfectly manicured trees and bushes that are the pride of the city.

Day 7

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Andeluna Cellars, Winery Tour & Tasting

Located on 200 acres of mountain vineyards is the state-of-the-art winery of Andeluna. Set among the foothills of the Andes, Andeluna is a remarkably beautiful place. Visitors enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding areas. There are four separate tasting areas to enjoy, and a walk on the grounds is the perfect way to experience the rich history and tradition of the winery while enjoying Argentina's finest wines. You will enjoy a private guided tasting of: Andeluna Merlot - 90 pts. The Wine Advocate, Aug. 08 Andeluna Cabernet - 90 pts. The Wine Advocate, Aug. 08 Andeluna Malbec - 88 pts. The Wine Advocate, Aug. 08

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Wine Country Classics Cooking Class

You will experience a hands-on cooking class featuring wonderful regional dishes. You will enjoy expanding your repertoire of Argentine wine country classics. The finest of ingredients together with interesting preparations will allow you to delight your friends and family when you return home. The history and evolution of the food plays an important role in the flavors and spices of today. You will enjoy the creativity and uniqueness of your labors as you sit and relax for dinner done by your own hands. Your chef’s will guide you through the preparation and presentation of each menu item so that the photographs of your dishes will serve a visual memory in your own kitchen back at home.

Day 8

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Check-Out and Departure | Transfers to Airport

Time flies when you’re having so much fun, but alas…it is time to check out and depart this delicious, “Edible Destination.” Remember, short excursion packages are often available in nearby cities or historic destinations. Should you desire an extension, please let your culinary travel specialist know prior to check-in. Your host will provide transfers to the airport in accordance with your travel plans. May your future travels come from sweet dreams, and create tasty memories!

Verde Oliva

Situated in Maipú, this 19th century house, has been beautifully restored. Surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, orchards and hundred year old trees, this bed and breakfast is surely one of its kind. All furniture has been picked by the owners and reflects the long family history at the inn. Verde Oliva Lodge, also offers wine and olive therapies. Relax with a massage in the middle of the vineyards or next to the swimming pool! The shard areas of Verde Oliva are warm and enjoyable allowing one to spend casual quality time in the inn. The gallery and library are filled with books on wine and olive oil production in Mendoza. This is the place for those wishing to experience solitude and peace that cannot be found in a typical hotel.

Mendoza, Argentina

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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What Currency is being quoted?

The Currency Code is listed directly after the published amount. If it states USD, then the quoted price is in United States Dollars. If it states CAD, then the quoted price is in Canadian Dollars. If it states EUR, then the quoted price is in European Union Dollars…etc. However, please note that all charges are processed in USD, and Epitourean’s Merchant Bank automatically calculates the currency conversion on the day of the charge.

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What does Double Occupancy mean?

Two persons traveling together, and staying in the same room. Tour prices are normally quoted as “per person, double occupancy” in case two people are traveling together and staying in the same room, but paying separately. The cost of the lodging is also shared by two people, thereby reducing costs. This could be a married couple, two friends or relatives.

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What is a Single Supplement?

Whenever a person travels alone, the cost of their lodging cannot be shared by another person. When tour products are priced, they are normally stated as “per person, double occupancy.” Whenever a guest occupies a room as a solo, the whole cost of the lodging must be incurred by that one individual. Tour companies accommodate this by charging a Single Supplement. Epitourean does its best to keep the single supplement as low as possible, but it is a real cost that tour companies must absorb, and must pass along to the single traveler.

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If I am a Solo Traveler, will I be paired with another person?

Epitourean never pairs a solo traveler with another person without a special request. If you book Single Occupancy, you will have a room entirely to yourself. However, should you wish to be paired with another solo traveler to save on the single supplement, you may make this request. We cannot guarantee that we can accommodate such requests, since it would take another solo traveling on the same tour for the same dates. But if requested, we will certainly try.

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Is a Deposit required to book a tour or getaway?

Yes. We require a 30% refundable deposit for all our domestic (USA and Canada) getaways and tours, and a 50% refundable deposit for international destinations outside of the USA and Canada. Reservations made for destinations within the USA and Canada must be paid in full 30 days prior to departure. Reservations made for destinations outside of the USA and Canada must be paid in full 60 days prior to departure.

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Are flights included in the tour price?

No. Flights are never included in the price of our land-only tours. Epitourean does not provide air, rail or sea travel, unless expressly noted in the itinerary.

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May I give a culinary tour as a gift?

Yes. Epitourean has a special program designed specifically for this purpose. Our Gift Packages come with features such as special messages to the recipient, gift box option, gift link (without pricing), and floating dates (should you not know when the gift recipient wants to travel). Contact a Culinary Travel Specialist at 800-390-3292 or customerservice@epitourean.com to receive additional information about this unique offering.

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May we request separate beds if sharing a room?

Yes. In most cases, Epitourean can accommodate a request for two beds to be placed in one room. Just make sure to make this request in the comments section of the reservation process.

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Does each guestroom have a private bathroom?

Yes. Epitourean partners with the best lodging options in each destination, and private (en suite) bathrooms are a requirement. However, you should inquire as to the configuration of bathrooms should you have a special need. For example, some tours include accommodations in medieval villages, where either a shower or bath(but maybe not both) are present.

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Can your tours accommodate my dietary restrictions?

In almost all cases, Epitourean can accommodate dietary choices and restrictions. But we do request that you ask a Culinary Travel Specialist prior to making your reservation so that we can assess your individual situation.

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What is your Cancellation Policy?

Our full cancellation policy is stated in the Terms and Conditions when making your reservation. Cancellations with a full refund are allowed up to 31 days or more prior to departure for USA and Canada tours, or up to 61 days or more prior to departure for international tours. No refund is allowed 30 days or less prior to departure for USA and Canada tours, or 60 days or less prior to departure for international tours.

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If I am unable to use a portion of the tour, can I get a partial refund?

Unfortunately, due to vendor and supplier contracts, we are unable to provide partial refunds for unused portions of any tour or tour component.

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Are Transfers included in the Itinerary?

Round-trip transfers from the airport or train station are normally included in our international tours. Transfers to the destination (for both international and domestic tours) are not included in the tour price. Please see the Sample Itinerary. If it mentions that transfers are included, then yes, transfers are included at no additional cost.

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What meals and excursions are included in the tour?

The Sample Itinerary should be your reference. If the meal or excursion is described in the Sample Itinerary, then it is included at no additional charge. For those days where it expressly notes Free time, then any optional activities you elect to participate in might have an additional cost. In addition, if the itinerary states "evening on your own," it would imply that you have the opportunity to visit a restaurant of your own choosing, and at your own expense. If you have any question about inclusions, please submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button under the price section.

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Is it possible to book pre or post tours or stays through Edible Destinations?

Yes, we often do have optional 2 and 3 night excursions that are priced separately from the tour. We can also assist with pre and post night stays in a hotel if you choose to come in early before the tour starts, or stay on after a tour ends. The price of those hotel stays are not included in the price of the tour, but we would be happy to provide a quote. Simply ask your Culinary Travel Specialist, or submit an inquiry by clicking on the blue "Ask Us a Question" button.

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Are Guide or Host Gratuities included in the price of the tour?

Since tipping guidelines and customs vary widely between countries, we do not include gratuities in the price of the tour. Your Culinary Travel Specialist can provide you with recommendations. But the general rule is to tip modestly when you are pleased with a guide’s services, either at the end of the tour, or at the conclusion of a specialty day excursion where you will only be with that guide (or chef) on that day.

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Should we plan on any personal expenses during the tour?

All lodging, meals, transfers, classes and excursions mentioned in the Sample Itinerary and Vacation Highlights are included in the price of the tour. However, we highly recommend taking local currency for purchasing personal items, souvenirs, tipping, etc. You can either get the local currency at an airport exchange service, ATM or from your local bank prior to travel. However, you should note that many hosted destinations do not accept credit cards for personal purchases.

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Do you recommend Travel Protection?

We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans can include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more. For more information on the available plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 06-0248.

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (formerly known as Stonewall Insurance Company), 1314 Douglas Street, Suite 1400, Omaha, NE 68102. 11.17 E7N

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