Bodega Cara Sur
A young project in the Calingasta valleys, inspired by the resilience and authenticity of the "south face" of the mountain, crafting expressive mountain wines.
The “south face” of a mountain is often the most challenging: colder, steeper, and less accessible. It symbolizes resilience, authenticity, and respect for nature. This is the spirit behind Bodega Cara Sur, located in the heart of San Juan’s Calingasta Valley. Here, mountain and vineyard intertwine in every bottle.
From above, the contrast between the arid hills of Paraje Hilario and the green oasis of Finca La Totora, with its rows of poplars, fruit trees, and old vines, is striking. Sustained by glacial waters from the Andes and generations of irrigation and care, the vineyard is a living expression of time and landscape.
Founded around 2010–2011 by Pancho Bugallo, Nuria Año, Sebastián Zuccardi, and Marcela Manini, the winery was born from a passion for rescuing old criolla vines and traditional winemaking methods. Today, they craft minimal-intervention wines that express place, memory, and identity.
Grown at over 1,550 masl in quartz-rich colluvial soils, the vines are cultivated organically, without chemicals, and fermented in concrete eggs. The result: vibrant, fresh wines with genuine character and elegant balance.
🏅 Awards and Recognitions
- Gold Medal for Cara Sur Bonarda de Guarda 2020 at the 34th San Juan Wine Tasting 2022
📞 Contact & Reservations – Bodega Cara Sur
Location
Barreal, Calingasta Department, San Juan, Argentina
Reservations
By appointment only: +54 2644 800300
Experiences
Restaurant & Gastronomy
Cara Sur offers a small, home-style dining experience, featuring seasonal regional dishes and wines made on-site. While there is no full-time restaurant, private pairings and meals are arranged for small groups or events, emphasizing warmth and connection with the terroir.
Events, Gatherings & Festivals
The natural setting and outdoor spaces are ideal for private tastings, small events, and intimate gatherings. A perfect venue for wine lovers seeking authenticity and mountain spirit in Calingasta.