Mendoza - Argentina's Wine Capital

About Mendoza

Mendoza, located at the foot of the Andes in western Argentina, is the heart of the country’s wine industry, producing 70% of Argentina’s wine, particularly its famous Malbec. Nestled at 760 meters (2,500 feet) elevation, the city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Andes and Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak. Mendoza’s tree-lined streets, vibrant plazas, and irrigation canals create a charming urban oasis. Beyond wine, it’s a hub for outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting, and skiing. The best time to visit is during the harvest season (February to April) or spring (September to November) for mild weather. Mendoza is accessible via Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport, with flights from Buenos Aires.

Key Information

Location Cuyo Region, Argentina
Population ~1.2 million
Best Time to Visit Feb-Apr or Sep-Nov
Access Flight to Mendoza Airport

Current Weather

Mendoza, Argentina

Today

22°C

Sunny

8 km/h

45%

07:00

18:15

History of Mendoza

Founded in 1561 by Spanish colonist Pedro del Castillo, Mendoza was named after the governor of Chile, García Hurtado de Mendoza. Originally part of the Spanish Viceroyalty, it became a key stop on the trade route between Buenos Aires and Santiago. The city was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1861, with wide streets and low buildings designed for seismic safety. The 19th-century arrival of European immigrants, particularly Italians and Spaniards, spurred the growth of viticulture, transforming Mendoza into Argentina’s wine capital. Today, Mendoza blends its colonial roots with a modern identity, hosting the annual Vendimia (wine harvest) festival since 1936.