
Bodega La Abeja
Discover Argentina's wine heritage at Bodega La Abeja, San Rafael's oldest winery. Enjoy historic tours and exceptional wine tastings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours

Bodega La Abeja
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Argentina's wine heritage at Bodega La Abeja, San Rafael's oldest winery. Enjoy historic tours and exceptional wine tastings.
"Fantastic history, great value, and delicious wines make this a must-visit!"

🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are essential! Message via WhatsApp or website to secure your tour and tasting slot.
💰 Great Value for Money
Tours and tastings are affordable, offering excellent value. Enjoy numerous wine samples for a reasonable price.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Winery Tour
Bodega La Abeja
Step back in time at the oldest winery in San Rafael, founded in 1883. Learn about its fascinating history and winemaking traditions.

Wine Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor a variety of delicious wines with generous samples. Many visitors rave about the quality and value of the tasting sessions.

Founder's Legacy
Winery Grounds
Discover the story of Rodolfo Iselín, the French immigrant who founded both the winery and the city of San Rafael.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace the History and Wine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are essential! Message via WhatsApp or website to secure your tour and tasting slot.
💰 Great Value for Money
Tours and tastings are affordable, offering excellent value. Enjoy numerous wine samples for a reasonable price.
🗣️ English-Speaking Guides
Guides like Ana and Sofie are praised for their knowledge and excellent English, making tours accessible.
🍷 Enjoy the House Wine
Grab a full glass of house wine for a small fee while waiting for your tour to begin. A great start!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are essential! Message via WhatsApp or website to secure your tour and tasting slot.
💰 Great Value for Money
Tours and tastings are affordable, offering excellent value. Enjoy numerous wine samples for a reasonable price.
🗣️ English-Speaking Guides
Guides like Ana and Sofie are praised for their knowledge and excellent English, making tours accessible.
🍷 Enjoy the House Wine
Grab a full glass of house wine for a small fee while waiting for your tour to begin. A great start!
⏳ Tour Duration
Expect tours and tastings to last approximately one hour. Perfect for a focused yet comprehensive experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bodega La Abeja for its rich history, excellent value, and enjoyable wine tastings. The knowledgeable and friendly guides, particularly those fluent in English, significantly enhance the experience. While primarily focused on wine, the historical context and affordable pricing make it a highly recommended destination in San Rafael.
"We messaged on WhatsApp to schedule an appointment. The tour was enjoyable, and the wine tasting at the end was fantastic, with numerous samples. For $2000, it was an outstanding value, and we also received a full glass of house wine for only $200 while we waited for the tour to begin."
Eric Scott
"My partner and I did a wine tasting tour here during our visit to San Rafael. Our guide Ana was fantastic - very knowledgeable about the history of the winery and the wine-making process; she also spoke excellent English which was a massive help as we're still learning Spanish!"
Daniel Benwell
"Bodega La Abeja was fantastic! For only $1000 pesos it was a brilliant tour. Sofie was a lovely tour guide who gave us a private tour in English. We loved trying their wines in the private tasting room as well! A brilliant bodega with a fantastic history and some very tasty wines... We'd 100% recommend!"
AbiLew
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bodega La Abeja is conveniently located in the center of San Rafael, Mendoza, at Hipólito Yrigoyen 1900. It's easily accessible by car or taxi. Many visitors also combine a visit with other attractions in the area.
Yes, Bodega La Abeja is situated among several other wineries in San Rafael, making it easy to plan a wine-tasting route. Other notable wineries nearby include Jean Rivier and Finca El Nevado.
Opening hours vary by season. Generally, they are open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in January and February (until 8:00 PM) and slightly shorter hours in March (until 7:00 PM). Always check their latest schedule.
Yes, as it's located in the city center, you can reach Bodega La Abeja via taxi or ride-sharing services if you don't have a car. Public transport options might be available but taxis are generally more convenient.
While not always part of a formal 'route,' its central location and historical significance make it a common stop for independent wine tours in San Rafael. Many visitors group it with other local attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for a tour and tasting is very reasonable. Visitors have reported prices around $1000 to $2000 pesos, which is considered excellent value for the experience and the number of samples provided.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, and often required, especially for guided tours and tastings. You can usually book by messaging them on WhatsApp or through their website.
The guided tour typically lasts about an hour and includes a walk through the historic winery facilities, learning about its history and winemaking process, followed by a wine tasting session with multiple samples.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the standard tour price is already considered a great deal. Some visitors mention that a full glass of house wine is available for a small additional fee while waiting.
It's best to check directly with Bodega La Abeja regarding their cancellation policy when booking. Given the need for reservations, it's advisable to confirm details at the time of booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A guided tour and tasting at Bodega La Abeja usually lasts around one hour. This allows for a comprehensive overview of the winery's history and a good sampling of their wines without feeling rushed.
Yes, many visitors have praised the guides, such as Ana and Sofie, for their excellent English proficiency, making the tours very informative and enjoyable for non-Spanish speakers.
You can expect to taste a selection of wines produced by Bodega La Abeja. Reviews often highlight the quality and variety of the wines offered during the tasting sessions.
Yes, after the tasting, you can typically purchase bottles of wine to take home. This is a great opportunity to buy your favorites directly from the winery.
The atmosphere is generally described as historic, charming, and welcoming. It's a place where you can appreciate the heritage of winemaking in San Rafael.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Bodega La Abeja is primarily a winery offering tours and tastings, they often have a bar with snacks available. It's a good place to enjoy a glass of wine and light bites.
Being in the city center, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance of Bodega La Abeja, offering a variety of dining options after your visit.
Bodega La Abeja is not a full-service restaurant. Their food offerings are typically limited to snacks and small bites to complement the wine. For a full meal, you'll need to visit a nearby restaurant.
Snacks can vary, but often include items that pair well with wine, such as cheese, crackers, or local delicacies. It's best to inquire about current offerings upon arrival.
Wineries typically do not allow outside food to be consumed on their premises, especially during tours or tastings. It's best to enjoy the snacks they offer or dine at a separate location.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Bodega La Abeja. You'll find many picturesque spots within the historic winery and vineyards to capture memorable shots.
The historic architecture of the winery, the wine barrels, the vineyards (if accessible), and the tasting room all offer great photo opportunities. Capture the essence of this historic establishment.
Drone usage is often restricted at private properties and tourist attractions due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check with the winery directly before attempting to fly a drone.
Many visitors enjoy photographing the wine bottles, the tasting setup, and the overall ambiance of the tasting room. The exterior of the historic building is also a popular subject.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for photography, casting a warm glow on the historic buildings and vineyards. However, the interior is well-lit for photos at any time during operating hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the morning hours when it might be less crowded. While there aren't specific child-focused activities, the overall experience of seeing a historic establishment can be educational. Ensure children are supervised at all times, especially in areas with wine production equipment.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays when tours might be less crowded. You can also enjoy a glass of house wine for a small fee while waiting for your tour, which is a cost-effective way to sample more without committing to a full tasting. Bringing your own water is always a good idea, and there are often snack options available for purchase if you need something more substantial than what's offered.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
The wine tasting itself is a key attraction, with visitors praising the quality and variety of wines sampled. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by explaining the characteristics of each wine. Many enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to purchase bottles directly from the winery, allowing them to take home a piece of San Rafael's winemaking heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: The Legacy of Bodega La Abeja
The story of Rodolfo Iselín is one of ambition and resilience, though marked by personal tragedy. Understanding his background adds a poignant layer to the visit, making the experience more than just a wine tasting. It's an immersion into the life of a pioneer who shaped the identity of San Rafael.
This historical significance is a major draw for visitors, who often express appreciation for the depth of information provided during the guided tours. It transforms a simple winery visit into an educational and cultural experience, highlighting the enduring legacy of Bodega La Abeja in Argentina's wine country.
The Art of Wine Tasting at Bodega La Abeja
For a modest fee, typically around $1000 to $2000 pesos, visitors receive a comprehensive tasting that allows them to explore various varietals. This exceptional value is frequently mentioned, making it one of the most appealing aspects of a visit. The tasting often takes place in a dedicated room, providing an intimate setting to appreciate the nuances of each wine.
Beyond the tasting itself, the winery offers a welcoming atmosphere. Some visitors even mention the option to purchase a full glass of house wine for a small price while waiting for their tour, adding to the relaxed and enjoyable ambiance. This thoughtful touch ensures that the experience is pleasant from start to finish.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips for Bodega La Abeja
The winery is open most days of the week, but hours can vary seasonally. Generally, you can expect them to be open from morning until late afternoon, with extended hours during the summer months. It's always best to confirm the current operating hours before your visit.
When it comes to value, Bodega La Abeja is frequently cited as offering an outstanding experience for its price. The tours are informative, the wine tastings are generous, and the historical context adds significant depth. Many visitors leave feeling they received excellent value for their money, making it a highly recommended stop in San Rafael.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit