Mendoza, two hours by plane from Buenos Aires, is the heart and soul of Argentina's wine country, where European settlers introduced the ancient craft of winemaking in the 19th century. It's also the adventure tourism center of Argentina's Cuyo region, offering world-class hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, horseback riding and skiing,Mendoza, two hours by plane from Buenos Aires, is the heart and soul of Argentina's wine country, where European settlers introduced the ancient craft of winemaking in the 19th century. It's also the adventure tourism center of Argentina's Cuyo region, offering world-class hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, horseback riding and skiing, all within reasonable driving distance of downtown Mendoza.

But wine is the main draw in Mendoza, and before you go, it's best to get a primer on the local grapes. Contact Buenos Vinos to get your palate primed for blends like Torrontes, Semillon, Syrah, Tempranillo and Argentina's signature grape, Malbec.

Once you arrive in Mendoza, travel agencies can familiarize you with the various vineyards and wine routes. One of the best is The Vines of Mendoza, an American-owned company that operates a stylish Wine Tasting Room and Info Center in downtown Mendoza. The firm offers aspiring oenologists the chance to brew their own boutique blend from start to finish.