Weekend at a Wine Hotel in Mendoza: Staying at Finca Adalgisa

As you already know, our travels through Mendoza featured plenty of wineries and vineyards, but we also got to experience staying at a wine hotel in Mendoza in Finca Adalgisa.

This is a winery, vineyard and boutique hotel set in Chacras de Coria about 20 minutes outside the city of Mendoza.

Staying at a wine hotel in Mendoza

What initially drew us to this place was its history. Finca Adalgisa is a fourth-generation property with vines that are over 100 years old. The finca was founded by two Italian families: the Morettis who came from Tuscany and the Furlottis who came from Parma. It was shortly after their arrival in Mendoza that they bought their first vineyard and began to produce wine, and they are still at it today!

So what was it like spending a weekend at one of the best wine hotels in Mendoza? Well, let me tell you all about our stay at Finca Adalgisa!

Wine o’clock in the vineyard

One of my favourite things about Finca Adalgisa was wine o’clock.

Every evening at 6 pm, all the guests were invited to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and an appetizer at the Winery & Lounge.

The setting was beautiful. We had views of the vineyards as far as the eye can see, and the option to sit out on the terrace or in a cozy lounge with an old tree growing through the roof!

It was everything you’d expect from a wine hotel stay in Mendoza.

Since we were there right around the end of summer, we opted for breezy evenings out on the terrace, and when things got chilly, there were warm blankets on hand.

It was during wine o’clock that we learned that Finca Adalgisa produces its wine on-site, but only 5000 bottles a year.

We were lucky enough to sample one of these 5000 bottles. We had a glass of their 2008 Malbec, which let me tell you, was a life-changing wine.

After ageing in French oak barrels for a decade, this wine was ruby red in colour and velvety smooth on the palate. It quickly became one of our favourites.

On our first night, we had tapas for dinner and what a meal that was!

We started with 3 bruschettas each: the first with avocado, tomatoes and onions; the second with roasted eggplant and goat cheese; and the third with cherry tomatoes, basil and mozzarella cheese. They were all drizzled with olive oil from the finca and had a sprinkling of coarse sea salt.

I was there with my dad and Sam, and we were trying to decipher all the ingredients and spices to try and recreate this at home!

Those tapas could have easily been enough for a light dinner, but there was more to come! Another bottle of wine arrived, and then we delighted in a spread of food served in 3 courses.

First up, a deli and cheese platter featuring salami, chorizo colorado, jamón crudo, peppered salami, a mix of soft and hard cheeses, grapes, raisins and almonds. Whewww!

Then came another platter that featured grilled veggies with olive oil and coarse salt. We tried zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, onions, eggplant, and my favourite, pumpkin!

And last but not least, we enjoyed a bowl of onion soup served in a clay pot with pine nuts. Perfect for a late summer’s night.

You eat well when you stay at a wine hotel in Mendoza! We were beyond satisfied by the end of it all…and ready for a good sleep.

A feast of a breakfast

The following morning, we had breakfast at the Old House in Finca Adalgisa, a terracotta building surrounded by lush vegetation and large arched windows that allow the morning sunlight to stream in.

The meal was more like brunch than breakfast, with enough food to keep us going all day.

There was homemade bread, criollitos, pan con grasa, medialunas, vanilla pound cake with chocolate chips, ham, cheese, avocado, dulce de leche, and a variety of jams and marmalades.

Aside from this, we were also handed menus to choose how we wanted our eggs done: scrambled, soft-boiled, hard-boiled, poached, omelette – you name it. And if eggs weren’t of interest, there were also waffles and pancakes.

All of this was accompanied by cafe con leche, tea and orange juice. The perfect start to the morning.

A winery tour at Bodega Furlotti

So what to do you do after a meal like that?!

Well, when you stay at a wine hotel in Mendoza, there are typically winery and vineyard visits to enjoy.

Finca Adalgisa can organize a wide range of activities from horse riding excursions and day trips to the base of Aconcagua, to biking tours and spa treatments, however, we were in the mood for wine.

We had already done a few wine tours prior to our stay, but we decided to do one more at Finca Adalgisa’s sister winery: Bodega Furlotti. (If you’ve been paying attention, you should recognize this name from one of the founding families!)

This is a working bodega so the tastings were straight from the tanks. We sampled 3 wines at various stages of the winemaking process ranging from young and fruity to mature and full-bodied. It was a fun experience and lucky for us, we’d be enjoying some of Bodega Furlotti’s wines back at the finca for dinner that evening.

One thing to note is that this winery visit must be arranged ahead of time. You can’t just show up and join a tour, but this can be easily arranged at the finca.

Plenty of room to relax

After that wine tour, we returned to Finca Adalgisa ready to nap…because that’s pretty much what a few glasses of wine will do to us. We had a pretty relaxing afternoon mostly lounging in the sun.

One really cool thing about this property is that they have a lot of different areas for the guests to enjoy. There was a study with leather couches and a wall covered in books, a sunroom with arched windows and enough plants to make it feel like a greenhouse, and the pool area was lined with palm trees, sun beds, and a pergola for anyone needing a bit of shade.

Aside from that, all the rooms had an outdoor area featuring either wicker chairs or hammocks, so it was easy to just find a quiet spot and relax outdoors.

Rustic yet comfortable rooms

What can you expect in terms of accommodations when staying at a wine hotel in Mendoza?

Well, that varies from one place to the next, but Finca Adalgisa did rustic-chic very well. There was a lot of wood furniture, exposed wooden-beams, raw-hide carpets and leather couches, but there was also a softer element with floral wallpaper and all white linens.

Meanwhile, my dad got upgraded to the Suite, which meant he had a two-level abode all to himself. On the bottom floor, he had a sitting area with a fireplace, exposed stone walls, leather couches and a kitchenette. Then, upstairs he had a master bedroom with even more seating, a King-sized bed, windows all around, and a bathroom larger than many studios!

It was a level of comfort none of us will soon forget.

An asado with fellow guests

On our last night at Finca Adalgisa, there was an asado taking place – the quintessential Argentine experience! After taking part in wine o’clock (like we’d miss that!), we made our way over to the dining area where there was a communal table set up.

This turned out to be a really fun opportunity to get to know our fellow guests at the property. Fuelled by wine (several rounds of a 2014 Malbec from Bodega Furlotti!) we got chatting with our group of Brits, Americans, Canadians and Argentines. And imagine our surprise when halfway through dinner one of the couples at our table revealed that they watch our YouTube videos – what a small world!

That night, we enjoyed a mix of Argentine cuts like chorizo, morcilla, colita de cuadril, vacio, entraña and more. Each cut of meat was taken off the grill as it was ready, cut into individual portions, and then brought to the table.

The meat was paired with potatoes and sweet potatoes in a honey mustard sauce, a leafy greens salad, and a delightful spread of grilled vegetables – similar to what we’d had for tapas the previous night.

Two hours flew by and before we knew it, dessert was being served. We had panqueques with dulce de leche (similar to crêpes with a caramel spread) and then we were offered Fernet Branca. This is technically an Italian drink, but it’s very popular in Argentina, especially in the province of Cordoba where people drink it with coke. It’s a bitter herbal digestive that tastes like medicine (at least to my tastebuds) so it was amusing watching people sample it for the first time. A few brave ones even drank it straight…you can imagine the grimacing faces at the table!

I rolled out of that party and into bed around 11 pm, but Sam ended up staying out with the gang until 2 am. I only wish we’d had this asado on the first night because it was a great way to bring all the guests together and meet a fun group of people adventuring across Argentina.

This was the perfect end to our stay at an iconic wine hotel in Mendoza.

 

Thank you Finca Adalgisa for inviting us to experience your wines and hospitality!

How to Plan a Weekend at a Wine Hotel in Mendoza (Finca Adalgisa Edition)

Why Base Yourself in Chacras de Coria

Chacras de Coria is the definition of “close to everything, far from the fuss.” You’re in Luján de Cuyo—Malbec country!—with leafy residential lanes, sleepy plazas, and a string of relaxed eateries, yet you’re only about 20 minutes by car from Mendoza city. At Finca Adalgisa specifically, you also get:

• Wine o’clock built in (yes, really).
• A human scale: rooms scattered between heritage spaces and garden hideaways.
• Walkable, bike-able streets if you want to explore between sips.
• That “family-run, fourth-generation story” you can taste in the glass.

Getting There & Getting Around

• Arriving: Fly into MDZ (Aeropuerto Internacional El Plumerillo). From there, a pre-booked transfer or taxi brings you to Chacras de Coria in roughly 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.
• Moving between wineries:
  • Driver/Remís: Best for a tasting day—no decisions, no designated driver debate.
  • Bike: Fun for close Luján wineries on quiet roads (mind siesta hours and summer heat).
  • Rideshare/taxi: Useful for dinner in the village or quick errands.
• Day trips: Look at a dedicated tour or private driver for Maipú (closer, classic) or Uco Valley (farther, jaw-dropping Andes views).

A 2.5-Day Finca Adalgisa Itinerary You Can Borrow

Day 1 – Check-In, Slow Down, Sip

• Mid-afternoon: Arrive, drop bags, breathe in eucalyptus and vine leaves.
• Golden hour: Wine o’clock at the Winery & Lounge—claim a terrace table, blanket optional. Start with Malbec; add the house bruschettas if you’re peckish.
• Evening: Keep it cozy with tapas on-site or stroll into Chacras for a casual dinner. Early night encouraged. Tomorrow is for tasting.

Day 2 – Luján de Cuyo Tasting Day + Pool Nap

• Breakfast: Long, unhurried brunch vibes in the Old House (order the eggs and sneak a medialuna).
• Late morning: Two nearby Luján wineries—think a heritage bodega and a modern contrast.
• Lunch: Winery restaurant or a produce-driven spot in Chacras (book ahead—Argentines dine late).
• Siesta: Pool, pergola, hammock. Maybe a chapter in the library if you’re pretending to be productive.
• Evening: Wine o’clock round two. If the asado experience is happening, bring your appetite; otherwise tapas + onion soup in clay pots is a hug in a bowl.

Day 3 – One More Taste (or a Different Valley)

• Option A: Bodega Furlotti visit through the finca (must be pre-arranged). Tank tastings = behind-the-scenes fun.
• Option B: Maipú half-day—a couple of classic producers and a grocery bag of olive oil, almonds, and jam for home.
• Option C: Full-day Uco Valley for modern architecture and mountain panoramas (longer drive; totally worth it if you have time).
• Late afternoon: Goodbye glass in the garden, last walk through the rows, promise you’ll be back.

Mendoza Wine, Demystified (Fast & Friendly)

Key Grapes to Know

• Malbec: Dark fruit, violets, plush tannins; different altitudes = different personalities.
• Cabernet Franc: Herbs, red currant, elegance; a rising darling.
• Bonarda: Juicy, food-friendly, often great value.
• Torrontés: Floral white (more common up north in Salta, but you’ll meet Mendoza expressions too).

Winemaking Styles You’ll Sip

• French oak: Spice, structure, vanilla whispers.
• Concrete eggs: Pure fruit, texture, a mineral hum.
• Stainless steel: Crisp whites and rosés; fresh, clean profiles.
• Long aging: Time in bottle = that velvety magic you tasted in the 2008 Malbec.

The Regions at a Glance

• Luján de Cuyo (Chacras de Coria): Classic Mendoza; mid-to-high altitude, Malbec royalty.
• Maipú: Historic bodegas, olive groves, easy logistics.
• Uco Valley: Higher altitude, mountain drama, cutting-edge wineries, cool-climate elegance.

Eating Well (On-Site & Nearby)

On-Site Comforts

• Tapas flights that escalate into “we don’t need dinner anymore.”
• Onion soup in clay pots, grilled veggies with coarse salt, local olive oil on everything.
• Asado evenings (when scheduled): chorizo, morcilla, vacio, entraña—served family-style, paired with laughter and Malbec.

Pairing Cheat Sheet

• Malbec + Asado: Obvious and essential.
• Cab Franc + Goat Cheese: Herbal meets tangy = zing.
• Torrontés + Empanadas: Floral + savoury pastry, especially if there’s a little spice.
• Bonarda + Pizza/Nightcaps: Juicy, uncomplicated joy.

What to Pack for a Wine Hotel Weekend (Checklist)

• ☐ Layers: Mendoza days are warm; nights chill fast, especially outside on the terrace.
• ☐ Smart-casual outfits: Think breezy dresses/shirts and sandals; no dress code stress.
• ☐ Sun gear: Hat, sunglasses, SPF—the UV is serious.
• ☐ Walking shoes: For vineyard strolls and winery grounds.
• ☐ Swimsuit: Pool + pergola nap combo.
• ☐ Day bag: Water, lip balm, camera, light scarf.
• ☐ Outlet adapter (Argentina uses Type C/I); check your chargers.
• ☐ Room picnic kit: Small corkscrew, tote, reusable bottle; you’ll thank yourself.
• ☐ Extra luggage space: Jam, oil, almonds, and (of course) wine are coming home with you.

When to Go & What Changes with the Seasons

• Harvest (Feb–Apr): Buzzing energy, grape-stained hands, lots happening in the cellars. Book everything early.
• May–Aug (Autumn/Winter): Clear skies, fewer crowds, fireplace evenings. Cool days; pack layers.
• Sep–Nov (Spring): Vines leaf out, warm afternoons, wide-open calendars.
• Dec–Jan (Early Summer): Long, sunny days; plan tastings in the morning and pool time later.

Should You Stay at a Wine Hotel, City Hotel, or Countryside Estancia?

Spanish & Wine: A Tiny Glossary

Handy Phrases

• Hola, una mesa para dos, por favor. — A table for two, please.
• ¿Tienen visitas guiadas? — Do you have guided tours?
• Quisiera reservar una degustación. — I’d like to book a tasting.
• Sin hielo / con hielo. — Without ice / with ice.
• La cuenta, por favor. — The bill, please.
• Muchas gracias, estuvo riquísimo. — Thank you, it was delicious.

Wine Words

• Bodega — Winery
• Cosecha — Harvest/vintage
• Barrica — Barrel
• Crianza — Aging
• Taninos — Tannins
• Aromas/Notas — Aromas/notes
• Copa — Glass (as in “una copa de Malbec”)

Finca Adalgisa & Mendoza Wine Weekend FAQ

Is Finca Adalgisa good for a short stay or should I plan longer?

Two nights are wonderful; three nights let you add a Maipú or Uco Valley day without rushing. Because wine o’clock is nightly, even a quick weekend feels complete.

Do I need a car to enjoy the wineries around Chacras de Coria?

No. Many guests use a remís/driver for tasting days and taxis or bikes for short hops. The finca can coordinate transport so you can focus on the fun part: tasting.

What exactly is “wine o’clock” and is it included?

It’s the finca’s early-evening ritual: a complimentary glass of wine (often paired with a little bite) shared on the terrace or in the lounge. It’s social, unhurried, and very much a highlight.

Can I book Bodega Furlotti directly or do I need to go through the finca?

Visits are by prior arrangement and the finca makes it easy to coordinate. Because it’s a working bodega, spots are limited—ask as soon as you book your room.

When is the best time to visit for harvest vibes?

February through April brings grape picking, cellar action, and that unmistakable winery buzz. If you prefer calmer roads and cool evenings, late autumn and spring are dreamy too.

How many wineries should I plan per day?

Two tastings plus a long lunch is the sweet spot. Add a third only if it’s next door and you like a brisker pace. Remember: Mendoza is about lingering, not speed-tasting.

What should I wear to winery visits and dinners?

Think smart-casual: breezy dress or linen shirt, comfy shoes, a layer for evening. You’ll be fine in sandals/flats; save stilettos for city sidewalks, not vineyard gravel.

Are vegetarian or gluten-free guests accommodated?

Yes—Argentina loves vegetables almost as much as beef. The finca’s tapas and asado sides feature plenty of veg, and kitchens are used to vegetarian/GF requests with advance notice.

Is tap water safe and what about the high altitude?

Many visitors drink filtered water and refill bottles at the property—ask the staff for guidance. Mendoza sits at moderate altitude; hydrate more than you think you need, especially with wine tastings.

Should I bring cash, or are cards widely accepted?

Cards are widely used at wineries and restaurants, but it’s smart to carry a bit of cash for small purchases, tips, and local markets. The finca front desk can point you to ATMs or help with options.

Can non-guests visit Finca Adalgisa for wine o’clock or dinner?

Experiences at the Winery & Lounge are primarily for in-house guests. If you’re nearby and curious, reach out ahead of time—policies can vary by season and occupancy.

Any last insider tips to make the weekend feel extra special?

Book your asado night if it aligns with your dates, leave space for a nap under the pergola, snag a sunset terrace spot early, and bring an extra tote for the olive oil and almonds you’ll inevitably adopt. Most of all—let the schedule breathe. Wine weekends are meant to be savoured.