Cradled in the heart of the Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo wine region of Mendoza Argentina, Bodega Anaia stands as a testament to the artistry of winemaking and the enchantment of the Argentine landscape. Established by a group of dedicated wine enthusiasts the winery has consistently pushed boundaries in both winemaking and architectural design.
The Award for Architecture and Landscape are a testament to the winery’s commitment to creating an immersive experience for its visitors. The architecture seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, creating an atmosphere of harmony and tranquillity.
The main building, designed by renowned Mendoza architects Gabriel Japaz and Pablo Guerra with its modernist design and sustainable features, is a marvel to behold. It’s not just a structure; it’s an embodiment of the winery’s philosophy. Large glass panels provide breathtaking views of the vineyards and the Andes mountains in the distance, inviting visitors to become one with nature while enjoying a glass of Anaia’s finest wines.
Front Side of Bodega Anaia
This elegantly linear structure, marked by its brutalist influences, is a homage to the raw materials from which it was constructed – pure stone and concrete. The design evokes the birth and tectonic evolution of the majestic Andes themselves.
The winery is adorned with natural ground pigments, ranging from soft greys and whites to deep browns, pinks, ochres, and vivid oranges. These colours echo the vibrant hues of Mendoza’s striking landscape, allowing the building to gracefully blend with its surroundings.
This elegantly linear structure, marked by its brutalist influences, is a homage to the raw materials from which it was constructed – pure stone and concrete. The design evokes the birth and tectonic evolution of the majestic Andes themselves.
The winery is adorned with natural ground pigments, ranging from soft greys and whites to deep browns, pinks, ochres, and vivid oranges. These colours echo the vibrant hues of Mendoza’s striking landscape, allowing the building to gracefully blend with its surroundings.
Bodega Anaia’s Terrace
The use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies showcases the winery’s dedication to environmental responsibility. This commitment to sustainability not only complements the surrounding landscape but also resonates with eco-conscious wine enthusiasts.
Bodega Anaia’s location in the foothills of the Andes is a key factor in its success. The vineyards benefit from the region’s unique microclimate, with warm, sunny days and cool nights. The combination of high-altitude vineyards and ancient soils contributes to the exceptional quality of their wines.
The winery’s landscape is furthermore punctuated by the distinctive presence of ‘mates,’ 9,600-liter amphorae conceptualized by co-founder Osvaldo del Campo. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Argentinian mate tea container, these vessels represent a pioneering innovation in wine production. Their state-of-the-art tilting mechanism facilitates selective interaction between solids and liquids, eliminating the necessity for pump-overs and racking, thereby preserving the wine’s integrity. Complementing these remarkable ‘mates,’ Anaia utilises concrete eggs and French oak barrels or vats of 4500 litres for micro-vifications, embodying a commitment to minimal intervention in the oenological process.
Bodega Anaia’s Mate Concrete Tanks
The winery’s commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices ensures that the landscape remains unspoiled. Visitors can explore the vineyards and learn about the cultivation process while taking in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds them. This synergy between agriculture and landscape is what makes Bodega Anaia a standout destination for wine tourists.
The 2023 Best Of Wine Tourism Award for Architecture and Landscape is not just a feather in Bodega Anaia’s cap; it’s an invitation to explore the winery’s exceptional wine tourism experiences. Visitors can indulge in guided tours that take them through the state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, cellars, and barrel rooms. Tasting sessions offer a chance to savour Anaia’s diverse range of wines, each a reflection of the unique terroir.
For wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those in search of a holistic winery experience, Bodega Anaia sets the bar high. It’s a place where wine, architecture, and landscape come together to create an unforgettable journey that lingers in the memory long after the last sip of wine has been savoured.
Learn more about Mendoza Great Wine Capital
Photo credit: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Mendoza