Vineyards grown before a white church in Cafayate, overlooked by the stunning mountain range beyond Salta, Argentina.

August 1, 2024

Cafayate: The Highest Vineyards in the World

Interim Travel Design Manager

Stunning landscapes, innovative production methods and outdoor adventures make up just some of the reasons to check this renowned wine region.

Exceptional wines, dramatic scenery and an almost-too-good-to-be-true leisurely drive through the Salta Province: Cafayate is fast emerging as a top destination for wine enthusiasts.

Located in the heart of the Calchaquí Valleys, Cafayate is best known for its Torrontés with a backdrop of impressive rock formations and picturesque vineyards.

This picturesque town may require venturing a little off the beaten track but is well worth the journey. Here’s your SmoothRed guide to exploring Cafayate’s best wineries, hotels, restaurants and more.

Getting to Cafayate

Cafayate sits at an altitude of around 1,700 metres (5,600 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest wine regions on the planet. The unique combination of altitude, climate and soil conditions creates an ideal environment for viticulture.

And getting there is a gorgeous part of the experience. Driving from Salta, the capital of the province, you’ll traverse the picturesque Route 68, known as the “Road of the Seven Wonders.”

This road takes you through a series of awe-inspiring geological formations, including the famous Quebrada de las Conchas (Shells Gorge), where the landscape is filled with vibrant red rock formations sculpted by nature.

The high altitude means more intense sunlight, cooler temperatures and greater diurnal temperature variation, all of which contribute to the distinct character of Cafayate’s wines.

Walking through the vineyards, you’ll notice the crisp, clean air and the stunning mountain backdrop. The vines thrive in the sandy, well-drained soils, producing grapes with concentrated flavours and vibrant acidity.

Cafayate's most delicious offering: Torrontés

If there’s one wine that embodies the spirit of Cafayate, it’s Torrontés. This aromatic white wine is Argentina’s signature grape, and nowhere does it flourish quite like in Cafayate.

Torrontés is known for its floral bouquet, often compared to Muscat, with hints of jasmine, orange blossom and peach. On the palate, it’s crisp and refreshing, with a lively acidity that makes it perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon.

In Cafayate, Torrontés reaches its peak expression. The altitude and climate enhance its aromatic intensity and flavour complexity, creating a wine that’s both distinctive and unforgettable.

Whether you’re enjoying a glass on a sun-drenched terrace or paired with local cuisine, sipping a Torrontés from Cafayate is a must-do while you’re here.

Best wineries to visit in Cafayate

Cafayate is home to a diverse range of wineries, each offering something special. Bodega El Esteco is one of the most renowned, with a history dating back to 1892.

This winery, set on a 17th century estate, combines traditional methods with modern technology to produce exceptional bottles. A visit here offers a glimpse into the winemaking process, from vine to bottle, and a chance to taste their acclaimed Torrontés and Malbec. For a real treat, opt for the ‘higher altitude’ wine tasting.

For a more boutique experience, head to Bodega Tacuil. Set high in the mountains, this small, family-run winery focuses on producing high-quality, low-yield wines.

A tour of Bodega Tacuil offers an intimate look at their vineyards and a tasting of their limited-production wines. Run by the sixth generation of the Dávalos family, Alvaro Dávalos, it’s worth pairing your wine tastings here with the famed cheese platter.

Another must-visit is Piattelli Vineyards, known for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views. Their state-of-the-art winery is set amidst the vineyards, providing a perfect setting for a tasting of their elegant wines, including their standout Cabernet Sauvignon and Torrontés.

Bodega Piattelli Cafayate is the newest of the two Piattelli wineries, with its sister winery located in Agrelo, Mendoza. This is a truly special place, especially on the dining front. We love the five-course tasting menu – a must-do for meat eaters especially.

Cafayate - it's never been closer

Stunning landscapes, innovative production methods and outdoor adventures are just some of the reasons to check this renowned wine region. Let’s find more reasons together.

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Wine tasting tours and experiences

A wine tasting tour in Cafayate offers the chance to explore the region’s top wineries, learn about the unique terroir and sample a variety of wines.

Tours here also often include visits to local artisan producers, offering a deeper insight into the region’s culture and traditions.

Pick up some tangy Queso de Cabra or, for those with a sweet tooth, Alfajores: traditional Argentine cookies filled with dulce de leche. For something extra special, look out for Mendoza wine-infused chocolates – you may want to pick up a few boxes!

For a truly unique experience, we recommend taking a horseback riding tour through the vineyards. There’s nothing better than riding through the rows of vines as the sun sets, followed by a private tasting under the stars.

Or, take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards for a bird’s-eye view of this stunning landscape, ending with a champagne toast and a gourmet picnic.

Sustainable and luxury wine tourism

Sustainability is at the heart of many wineries in Cafayate. Bodega Colomé, one of the oldest wineries in Argentina, is a leader in sustainable winemaking. They use organic farming practices, solar energy and biodynamic principles to produce their wines.

While here, stay at the luxurious Grace Cafayate, a hotel and wine estate set amidst the vineyards. Check in to enjoy airy, modern bedrooms, world-class dining and a range of wine-focused activities, from private tastings to wine blending sessions. This is wine tourism at its finest, offering an indulgent escape in a breathtaking setting.

Food and wine pairing in Cafayate

No visit to Cafayate is complete without experiencing the local cuisine.

The region’s food is a perfect complement to its wines, with dishes that highlight the flavours of the land. Traditional Argentine asado, or barbecue, is a must-try, featuring succulent cuts of meat grilled to perfection. Pair it with a robust Malbec for a match made in heaven.

For something lighter, try empanadas: savoury pastries filled with meat, cheese or vegetables.

These are perfect with a glass of Torrontés, the wine’s bright acidity balancing the richness of the filling. Many wineries offer food and wine pairing experiences, allowing you to dig into the best of Cafayate’s culinary offerings alongside their wines.

Our favourite restaurants in Cafayate

When you book with SmoothRed, you can take advantage of our travel app, which has (amongst many other things) our curated dining guide to each destination. But, to pique your palate, some of our top choices are:

Bodega Piatelli Restaurant: Gourmet dishes with breathtaking vineyard and mountain views.

Bad Brothers Wine Experience: A chic eatery and wine bar, known for its creative small plates and extensive selection of local wines.

El Rancho: A modern take on a traditional parrilla, serving up high-quality grilled meats in a cosy, stylish atmosphere.

Pacha Resto Bar: Bohemian flair and an eclectic menu of regional and international dishes.

Planning your visit to Cafayate

The best time to visit is during the harvest season, from February to April, when the vineyards are at their most beautiful and many wineries host special events. But Cafayate’s mild climate makes it a great destination year-round.

Here at SmoothRed, we’re experts at crafting your dream holiday based on your interests and preferences. Get in touch with our Travel Designers today to start dining, drinking and experiencing the best that Cafayate has to offer.