Dining at the Wineries of Mendoza – Nieto Senetiner

If you haven’t yet been introduced to a proper Argentinean parrillada, I can’t think of a better place than Nieto Senetiner. Add to this never-ending parade of every cut of beef you never knew existed: a bodega with truly world-class wines, an intimate, personal, family-run atmosphere and a sublime view of the snow-capped Andes across miles of vines to go with your lunch, and you have yourself a top pick for an exquisite midday meal-cum tasting in Mendoza’s wine country.

For those who have not yet survived the avalanche of meat that is a parrillada (aka asado, or roast), it is a (usually massive) meal consisting of a sequence of meats presented one or two at a time and ranging from organs to sausages to ribs to succulent tenderloin. Suffice it to say that Nieto Senetiner (say it five times fast) does a top-notch asado.

But aside from the wonderful food and incredible view of Mt. Aconcagua, we loved Nieto Senetiner for the fun, easygoing ‘tour’ which felt more like hanging out with a good friend who just happened to know a whole lot about wine. Oh and look—he happens to have an entire cellar at his disposal to taste from!

Our Picks: their Cadus and Bonarda are both excellent and well worth the price (which will never be as affordable as at the bodega, no matter how the Cadus price tag may seem at the time. I only wish I had bought more.)

Tours are free and conducted (in Spanish and English) seven days a week at 10, 11, 12:30 and 4pm in summer, 3pm in winter; reservations not necessary unless you show up with more than 10 people or outside the above times.

Reservations are naturally required for lunch (24 hours in advance), served all year round at 12 noon. Other menus can be arranged, contact the bodega in advance.

turismo@nietosenetiner.com.ar

As far as I can see, they don’t really have an address! They are located in Vistalba district (not to be confused with the nearby winery of the same name) of Lujan de Cuyo department, and should be marked on any half-decent map of the area; try the maps given out by the tourism kiosk in downtown Mendoza.

Also note that my geotag from this winery is only approximate and did not come from my GPS!