When it is summer in the U.S., it’s winter in Mendoza, and vice versa. Though, due to the mild climate and virtually ever-present sun, there really is no bad time of year to visit.

Land of sun and wine: Mendoza enjoys nearly 300 days of sun per year. Despite its proximity to the Andes, it is rare for even a winter day to be without a sunny interlude. While winters (especially nights) can get chilly, it becomes apparent when the days become longer and warmer in September that Mendoza is in fact a desert. Rainfall is scarce (220 mm a year) and occurs mostly during the summer. Heat tends to be dry, as the Andes block the humidity from the Pacific Ocean. In summer (December – March), temperatures range from 65°F to 95°F and in winter from 37°F to 59°F.

Vendimia Festival
Many wine lovers travel to the region during March to participate in the Vendimia Festival, a week-long celebration of the grape harvest that is marked with concerts and a series of bodega-sponsored activities. If you decide to come during Vendimia (which always takes place during the first week of March), be sure to reserve early.

Fall
If you want to avoid the Vendimia crowds, April and May are lovely months to visit Mendoza. Fall colors are everywhere, and many wineries are still finishing the harvest and starting the winemaking process.

Winter
Winter (June, July and August) is pruning season at the vineyards.

Spring
In September and October, the vines are treated and weeded. In November, wineries select their buds, and in December and January, they perform green harvesting and further vine treatment.

Summer
January and February are for pruning, thinning and weeding in preparation for the harvest.