Bodega Architecture in Mendoza: New Look, Old Tradition

There is a certain architecture to wine.  The layering of soft aromas and subtle flavors, the strength of its tannins, the interplay of these notes on the palette all serve to construct the story of the wine and its particular identity.

But there is another kind of architecture present in the world of wine, one that deserves equal consideration in the conversation.

As Mendoza has transformed to assume its place as a prominent wine producing region in the world, the spaces that shape the wines have also transformed.  The form of Mendoza´s wineries have developed along with the vineyards that surround them. Here are a some examples of the types of incredible architecture you can expect on a Mendoza wine tour:

Salentein 
The firm´s first winery construction from start to finish, the design of Salentein greets visitors with an art gallery centered on Mendoza´s unique culture and tradition.  Visitors then pass through a glass door, walk through a small expanse of vineyard and are rewarded with a panoramic view of the cordillera and the winery itself.  Aware of its surroundings, Salentein is as much a part of the landscape as the peaks that loom behind it.

Killka cultural space welcomes visitors to Bodega Salentein, displaying modern art and leading the way to the heart of the Bodega and vineyards.

The cultural space then gives way to the front steps of Bodega Salentein.

Pulenta Estate 
The clean lines and stone construction of Pulenta Estate presents an unobscured glimpse of  a minimalistic aesthetic.  The simplicity of its design showcases the surrounding landscape, echoing the bodega´s emphasis on environmental practices.  While the exterior is somewhat understated, the true architectural statement awaits visitors in the barrel room, where red carpets and dramatic lighting showcase the French oak barrels and the wines that reside within.  

In the heart of Luján de Cuyo sits Pulenta Estate.

O´Fournier

This Avant garde winery located near the end of the Andean mountain chain both literally and figuratively stands alone.  Freshly harvested grapes are loaded up the ramps and are poured into the four pillars that serve as wine tanks.  The pillars lead directly to the underground barrel room and into the heart of the winery.  A large black roof and restaurant surrounded by a moat and wooden bridges hint at Asian architectural simplicity and achieve a beautiful pairing of both form and function.

Carolyn Gallagher stands outside of O´Fournier.

The restaurant at O´Fournier accents the spectacular view of the Andean foothills with a delicious menu and wine list.

Bodega DiamAndes

DiamAndes provides a modern design well ahead of its time inspired by one of the world´s oldest luxuries: the diamond. The dramatic straight edges and curving lines of the structure,  as well as its futuristic and cosmopolitan layout, create a feeling of luxury and indulgence. The main focal point is the central hall with a breathtaking diamond structure, visible through an ample looking glass in the ceiling. With the latest technology, modern architecture, and old world inspiration, Diamandes is sure to impress.

The entirety of the sprawling winery.

The curved glass wall makes way for 180 degree views of the Andes Mountains.

The famous central hall. The heart (diamond) of it all.

Interested in pairing wine with architecture in Mendoza?

You can see the broadly sweeping differences in architecture among the wineries for yourself. Various wineries such as Salentein offers a comprehensive architectural tour, explaining the process of design and construction from original vision to full, physical fruition. With our custom-built tours we can highlight the unique architecture Mendoza´s wine country has to offer.

Visit bodegas such as Bodega Norton, Nieto Senetiner, Vistalba, Dante Robino, Pulenta Estate, Salentein Killka, Diamandes and O´Fournier.

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