Mendoza may be celebrated for its world-class wines, but the region’s craft beer scene has grown into a vibrant counterpart that surprises many visitors. In between vineyard tours and long countryside lunches, locals and travelers are discovering breweries that bring the same care and regional pride to beer that winemakers bring to their bottles. Afternoons often begin with a simple pastry or a cup of Argentinian coffee in the city, but by evening the focus shifts to taps pouring pale ales, malty reds, and creative brews infused with local ingredients.

These breweries fit seamlessly into the valley’s culinary landscape. Some pair their beers with the comforting flavors found in traditional Mendocino dishes, and a few spots even overlook vineyards, blending the relaxed atmosphere of wine country with the laid-back energy of a taproom.

Exploring Mendoza’s craft beer scene is experiencing a different side of the valley, one shaped by creativity, community, and the unmistakable flavors of the Andes. It is a reminder that wine country has room for more than just wine, offering new tastes for curious drinkers.

Why Craft Beer is Thriving in Wine Country

Craft beer culture in Mendoza has surged in recent years, thanks in part to the growing demand for diverse flavors. Beer is the perfect complement to the region’s hearty cuisine, and the rising number of young, entrepreneurial brewers are combining Argentine tradition with modern brewing techniques. With influences from German, Belgian, and even English styles of beer, Mendoza’s brewers are getting creative, producing everything from light lagers to robust IPAs.

Where to Find the Best Craft Beer in Mendoza

If you’re ready to explore Mendoza’s craft beer offerings, here’s a breakdown of some of the top spots in the city and beyond. These places are not only pouring excellent brews but also adding a bit of Argentine flair to each pint.

Patio Cervecero

Located in the heart of Mendoza’s bustling downtown, Patio Cervecero is a local favorite for both residents and tourists looking to enjoy artisanal beer in a laid-back setting. The patio-style venue offers a rotating selection of beers on tap, many of which are brewed locally. The vibe here is casual and unpretentious—a perfect stop for travelers looking to chill out after a day of wine tours.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5

Antares Mendoza

Antares is one of the most well-known craft beer chains in Argentina, and their Mendoza location doesn’t disappoint. Located near the bustling Aristides Villanueva street, this brewery offers a wide selection of their own brews, from light blonde ales to heavier stouts and IPAs. Their “Scotch Ale” is particularly popular—rich, malty, and perfect for sipping in the cool mountain air.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.3/5

Zitto Mendoza

Located in the bustling nightlife hub of Aristides Villanueva, Zitto Mendoza is the place to be if you’re in the mood for a lively atmosphere paired with a frosty pint. Zitto offers a solid selection of craft beers brewed locally, as well as a few imported options. If you’re a fan of pale ales or IPAs, this is where you’ll want to be. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for a warm Mendoza evening.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.2/5

Cerveza Jerome

Cerveza Jerome is a microbrewery located in Potrerillos, a scenic spot just outside of Mendoza city, at the foothills of the Andes. Jerome has a loyal local following and is known for its variety of Belgian-inspired ales. The brewery’s flagship beer, “Pale Ale Jerome,” is a crisp and refreshing option, perfect for pairing with some empanadas and scenic mountain views.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.6/5

Pirca Cerveceria Artesanal

Located on the outskirts of Mendoza, Pirca Cerveceria Artesanal is the definition of “off the beaten path.” Known for their small-batch, handcrafted beers, Pirca serves a variety of styles, including their famous IPA and smooth stout. It’s the perfect stop if you’re heading out on a day trip to explore the Andean foothills. Their seasonal beers, brewed with local ingredients, are also worth checking out.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.7/5

What to Try: Top Beers and Styles in Mendoza

Craft beer aficionados know there’s more to beer than just grabbing the nearest pint. In Mendoza, the range of styles on offer is impressive, and here are a few beers and types to keep an eye out for:

• IPAs: Mendoza’s breweries have embraced the global IPA trend. Look for strong hoppy flavors, with hints of citrus and pine, making for a refreshing yet bold drinking experience. Antares and Jerome are particularly known for their IPAs.
• Scotch Ale: For something a bit richer and malt-forward, Scotch ales are a great choice. Try the version at Antares, which has just the right balance of sweetness and smokiness.
• Blonde Ales: If you prefer something lighter but still flavorful, blonde ales are widely available at most craft beer spots in Mendoza. They offer a subtle sweetness and smooth finish, great for warm weather.

Pale Ales: Jerome’s Pale Ale is a must-try, offering the perfect balance of malt and hops, with just enough bitterness to keep things interesting.

Craft Beer and Food Pairing in Mendoza

What’s better than craft beer? Craft beer paired with great food! In Mendoza, you’ll find that many breweries offer food menus that are just as impressive as their beer selections. Here are some pairing ideas to get you started:

• Empanadas and IPA: The richness of Argentine empanadas pairs beautifully with the bitter, hoppy notes of an IPA. The crisp beer cuts through the savory filling, leaving a balanced flavor in your mouth.
• Choripán and Stout: A classic Argentine street food, choripán (grilled sausage sandwich) goes surprisingly well with a stout. The charred, smoky flavors of the sausage are complemented by the roasted malt of the beer.

Cheese boards and Blonde Ale: A refreshing blonde ale is the perfect accompaniment to a board of local cheeses, balancing out the richness with its light, crisp flavors.

Beer Tasting Tours in Mendoza

If you want to dive deeper into Mendoza’s beer scene, there are organized beer tasting tours that can guide you through some of the best spots in the city. Many of these tours also offer a hybrid experience, combining visits to wineries and breweries so you get the full taste of what Mendoza has to offer.

Mendoza Beer Tours is one company offering customizable tours, giving travelers the option to visit local breweries, sample their beers, and even meet the brewers behind the scenes. They’ll take you beyond the tourist traps and into the heart of Mendoza’s beer culture.

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.8/5

Cook With Us

Who knew that in the land of Malbec, craft beer would be having such a moment? Mendoza’s craft beer scene is as varied and exciting as its wine industry. So, if you’re visiting the area and looking to shake things up, skip a vineyard or two and head to one of the many artisanal breweries for a pint of something hoppy, malty, or crisp. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

With great beer, delicious food pairings, and a laid-back vibe, the craft beer culture in Mendoza is one you don’t want to miss. Cheers, or as the locals say, ¡Salud!

Ready to explore more of Mendoza’s flavors? Book one of our Cook in Fiesta food tours and discover the city through its wines, beers, markets, and kitchens with a local touch.