South of the Border - Part II

The flight from Santiago to Mendoza was short and spectacular, showing yet another breathtaking side to the Andes.

I didn’t know what to expect from Mendoza, the city where my dear husband was born. I always thought it was a small city, but it is sizeable and a really delightful city.

Coming from Quito, we both longed for pedestrian zones where you can walk, sip a cappuccino, windowshop, and peoplewatch. Mendoza was that refreshing change. And we were in the heart of meat-landia, so Santiago was happy. Although he swore off of red meat – a commitment that lasted 18 hours (including sleep and breakfast) – he somehow was able to start our first night with a large set of ribs.

Mendoza is home to 70% of Argentina's wine production, and is the eighth world wine capital. Known for its Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Malamado, Torrentes, and Tempranillo, Mendoza is a taste of heaven for those who like wine. Its spectacular setting makes the winetasting all the better.

Easter Sunday was spent at a quiet hacienda for a wonderful lunch and classical music concert.

The boys entertained themselves – and everyone in the restaurant - with their creative head decorations, i.e. bird feathers from the courtyard.

Monday took us to a far flung corner of Mendoza province at the foot of the Tupungato mountain to visit Andeluna winery.

When they weren’t hiding, the boys were ... eating grapes.

The men played football, in between wine tastings. We chatted with the chef for some time, in between the boys’ intense questioning about his techniques.

And I just enjoyed one of the most beautiful settings around.

We headed further afield to Salentein Winery, for a great lunch with intense conversation, and walk through the vines. And the boys enjoyed playing with a spectacular backdrop.

Tuesday we planned our day around lunch at Zuccardi winery. Lots of parrilla, and plenty of wine. The boys have professional noses, taking a solid guess at the bouquet. OK…Timmer usually yells, “it smells like grapes!”

We were delighted to be there for harvest, and to chat with the harvesters. They boys ran through the fields and the delightfully appointed patio, reaching high for grapes.

More on BA to come!