What is there not to like about a day in the sun, with good company, wine and nibbles. This area is a major wine making and fruit growing centre. The tour began with a pickup from the hotel, where I joined the mainly Argentinian folk on the minibus. When we got to the first vineyard, it become obvious that there were other English speakers, as we subdivided into two groups. I joined a young Swiss trio and we were shown the wine making process by a guide who spoke English, but with the wierdest pronunciation ever - hardly understandable.
Oak Vats from France
The daddy of vats
This was an old vineyard that dates back to the early 1920s and their wine was very good - not that I'm an expert. I bought a bottle to take away, which was reasonaably priced at about £6.
From there we went to a small unit that pressed olives and sold olive derived products. They also provided us with samples of their different oils with bread - especially liked the lemon flavoured extra virgin oil. I also tried their anti ageing cream, but they didn't sell it in large enough quantities for my needs. Smelt nice though.
Finally we finished up at a more modern vineyard with stainless steel vats and high tec equipment and do you know what, the wine really wasnt as good as the first vineyard. Never thought I'd be able to notice the difference, but I did. The after taste was much harsher.
I enjoyed the day and it was good having a chat to the Swiss, one of whom was a teacher. I also got a kiss today, the Argentinian lady who I sat next to on the bus, spoke a little English and had been to England twice and loved it. Upon saying goodbye, she gave me a peck on the cheek and told me I had lovely blue eyes!!! Too much wine I reckon.
Anyway a nice region and worth visiting. I'm heading east tomorrow and the place I am staying at it is not meant to be a nice place, but it is convenient in terms of breaking up my journey.
*Footnote
When I got back to my hotel and checked my emails I had one from Viator, apologising for the Machu Picchu trip and giving me a 20% refund, so it was worth complaining.
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