A Touch of Ice in the Heat of Summer
It’s midsummer in Mendoza, Argentina, and the sun blazes down over the high desert plains. Yet just one finger dipped into the snowmelt-fed irrigation canal was enough to feel a jolt of icy Andean water. This natural contrast defines Mendoza—an arid plateau perched 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) above sea level, where the soil is sandy and rocky, and the temperature can swing over 20°C (36°F) between day and night.
Here, amidst the high-altitude vineyards, some of the vines are over 100 years old. Though they produce fewer grapes, the fruit they do yield is nothing short of exceptional.
A UFO Among the Vines
Amid these ancient vineyards stands what looks like a spaceship—or perhaps an architectural marvel. Welcome to O. Fournier, a futuristic winery that breaks the serenity of the Uco Valley landscape with its bold, modern design.
Located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from the city of Mendoza, O. Fournier was designed for gravity-flow winemaking—a method that minimizes mechanical intervention to preserve the integrity and aroma of the grapes. The result is a wine production process that’s both efficient and deeply respectful of terroir.
The Temple of Barrels
Beneath the winery lies what they fittingly call the “Temple of Barrels.” This square chamber has a vivid red floor and colorful contemporary art on the walls. Along each wall, oak barrels stand like monks in silent prayer—lined up in perfect harmony, aging the next vintage of Argentine excellence.
The Faces Behind the Wine
The winery is led by Ortega Gil Fournier, while his wife Nadia oversees their on-site fine dining restaurant, Urban. Urban is a culinary destination in its own right, known across the region for pairing robust Argentine meats with their signature red—Alfa Crux.
Tasting Note: O. Fournier Alfa Crux Malbec 2008
This wine makes a statement from the very first sip.
- Color: Deep, inky purple
- Aroma: Ripe dark fruits, gentle spice, and well-balanced alcohol
- Palate: Black strawberries, plums, and an almost sweet, long-lasting finish
- Body: Full-bodied, structured, and bold
Perfect for pairing with grilled meats and serious food.
Bottom Line
Argentine winemaking at its finest.
O. Fournier is not just a winery—it’s an experience. From its architectural design to its barrel-aging sanctuary, and from icy mountain water to world-class Malbec, this is a destination that redefines what wine tourism in Mendoza can be.
