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After a devastating earthquake in 1861, Mendoza was reconstructed on a grid, making it easy to explore on foot. Four small squares (Chile, San Martín, Italia, and España) radiate from the four corners of Plaza Independencia, the main square. Their Spanish tiles, exuberant fountains, shaded walkways, and myriad trees and flowers lend peace and beauty. Avenida San Martín, the town's major thoroughfare, runs north–south out into the southern departments and wine districts. Calle Sarmiento intersects San Martín at the tourist office and becomes a peatonal (pedestrian mall) with cafés, shops, offices, and bars. It crosses the Plaza Independencia, stops in front of the Park Hyatt, then continues on the other side of the hotel to a busy restaurant strip.
A small joint enterprise between the Catena family from Mendoza and the Rothschild family who own Château Lafite Rothschild in Bordeaux, CARO crafts Argentine blends with a French accent. Visit includes ducking down into the historic cellar before sampling three vintages. Come in the evening and you might catch some tango. Tastings take place Monday to Friday.
This 1922-founded winery close to downtown Mendoza was brought into the 21st century by the Millán family, who are hands on at the bodega. Besides sampling a solid wine selection, visitors can enjoy the art gallery (curator Paula Dreidemie is available for private tours), guided visits, and tastings (from 10,000 pesos). Book in for lunch or dinner at Abrasado restaurant, which specializes in dry-aged beef. The winery also produces award-winning extra-virgin olive oil called "Laur."
