Casarena winery in Mendoza has replanted an old Malbec vineyard in their new Naoki vineyard, in a rather interesting terroir! Winemaker Martina Galeano talks about the terroir of Luján de Cuyo, as well as the particularities of their ‘elephant cemetary’ vineyard and the fascinating story of rescuing some older vines. She also explains in this interview why Lujan is a great wine region not only for Malbec but also Cabernet Sauvignon.
At Casa Naoki, it’s hard not to get caught with your eyes on the horizon… whether that be snowy mountains, the flaming orange sky or even cascades of lightning moving across a thundery sky. Casa Naoki is all about its position high on the hillside with a perfect panoramic view over the wine regions of Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza. The infinity pool seems to drop off into the vineyards and fields below, where you can see farmhands in the distance working the vines.
More a private home than a hotel, this is the house of the Dartley family who own Casarena winery. It is an exclusive residence available to hire — whether you are a couple or a group of friends. The whole house is at your disposition but, and here’s the big difference, the house staff is too… Which means you will barely need to lift a finger while staying here. A beautiful breakfast is laid out at your chosen time, there’s a fridge filled with snacks and a cellar filled with wine, and a personal chef on hand for special wine-paired dinners in the dining room or on the pool deck.
What are the best wineries to visit in Mendoza ‘s Luján de Cuyo region for lunch? There are a host of wineries with restaurants in Mendoza but with just a couple days to spend in the region, what should be your top picks? Here’s my run down of the best winery restaurants in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza.
If steak and mountain views are your priority, then this organic winery which also has an organic ranch raising their own cattle, is the ideal pick. Ojo de Agua’s rustic outdoor restaurant offers unparalleled views over the vineyards and mountains, and serves a simple but delicious menu experted grilled on the open flame.
Great for: mountain views, juicy organic steak
More details: Ojo de Agua winery guide
One of the most traditional and historic wineries to visit in Luján de Cuyo, Lagarde has a charming restaurant in their gardens and old adobe residence. The Fogón restaurant serves up a delightful paired menu with innovative local dishes from local ingredients, all paired with Lagarde’s wines.
Great for: intimate lunches, historical winery
More details: Lagarde winery guide
Known as the Queen of Torrontes, you can expect a few white wines to grace the table at Susana Balbo’s winery in Luján de Cuyo. You can either opt for the 0km menu, using ingredients from their garden, or a more elaborate five course menu, all while enjoying the excellent wines of Susana Balbo and Ben Marco.
Great for: top wines, modern cuisine
More details: Susana Balbo Wines
One of the first winery restaurants in Mendoza to offer a sit-down, wine-paired tasting menu, Ruca Malen has been a long-standing favourite in Mendoza’s Lujan de Cuyo. Headed up by Lucas Bustos, it offers a creative concept tasting menu paired with Ruca’s wines and a great view of the Andes.
Great for: fine-dining
More details: Ruca Malen winery guide
Under the hand of expert chef Lucas Bustos, this modern winery restaurant has a contemporary pairing menu with Casarena wines and you can sit out on deck and enjoy the view of the vineyards and the mountains tucked over the horizon.
Great for: modern cuisine, peaceful vineyard vista
Learn more: Casarena winery
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Casarena Owen’s Vineyard Chardonnay from Agrelo is produced by Casarena winery in Luján de Cuyo.