For Juan Tonconogy, a love of wine has formed part of his story since childhood. Youthful summers spent in Mendoza left him captivated by the alchemy of winemaking, as he observed how the essence of the rugged Uco Valley, with its wide skies, Andean backdrop and sun-drenched vineyards, could be transformed into something truly extraordinary. What began as a boyhood fascination soon evolved into a clear vision: to create a place that would both celebrate and share the magic of this remarkable region.
Later, armed with a business degree, Juan opened his first local winery before joining forces with his father, celebrated Argentine architect Alberto Tonconogy, with a view to building something even more special. Together, they brought Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Resort to life, which first opened its doors in 2014. This is a property that blends striking contemporary design with the raw beauty of its natural surroundings. It is very much a family affair, as Juan’s daughter, interior designer Julia, has also left her mark, adding warmth and personality to the elegant spaces.
Today, Casa de Uco is one of the most distinctive names on Mendoza’s wine tourism scene, a living embodiment of the Uco Valley spirit. For Juan, though, the resort is just part of the dream. He’s equally committed to nurturing local development, creating opportunities for both tourism and the wider community.
What does being ‘independently minded’ as a hotel owner mean to you?
Having the freedom to define our identity with depth and purpose, without the constraints that chain hotels face. Consequently, everything we do is inspired by the land and our guests. This independence allows us to design experiences that are wholly authentic to the Uco Valley. What’s more, we can fully embrace everything our beautiful environment has to offer while preserving its integrity, from organic vineyard cultivation to weaving sustainability into every aspect of our daily life here at the resort. Every carefully curated element, from materials and flavours to tailormade experiences, embodies the vibrant soul of this unique place. Stays are deeply rooted in nature and the rhythm of our working vineyard.
On a personal level, I believe that my passion for design, wine and the outdoors is present throughout the hotel. Our minimalist architecture has created a family legacy: my father’s creative vision manifested into a project that creates a dialogue with the land, integrating harmoniously with both the Andes and the vineyard setting. Our service is designed to create connections rather than simply impress, while our winemaking stays true to the terroir and the essential expressions of the grapes. With Casa de Uco, we did not replicate an existing model. We created our own one-of-a-kind language — one that invites travellers to feel part of the Uco Valley, rather than just visit it.
What was the inspiration behind the hotel, and where do you continue to find sources of inspiration?
The original inspiration came directly from the Uco Valley itself, drawing on the raw beauty of the Andes, the silence, the vineyards and the sense of vastness you can’t help but feel here. This stunning setting called for a vision that would not compete with the landscape, but rather become a natural extension of it, using intuitive architecture and design. My father conceived of a structure that would fully integrate with the land, using materials, forms and perspectives that frame the vineyard and mountains, instead of overpowering them.
Equally important was the desire to share our way of life with guests. The goal was never just to provide accommodation, but to immerse travellers in vineyard living, experiencing a slower rhythm and a deep connection to nature, while partaking in daily rituals shaped by the seasons and the land.
Two sources continue to fuel our creativity. First, the ever-changing landscape, which reminds us to stay true to simplicity and a local way of life. Second, from travelling to extraordinary places around the world, where architecture and hospitality are deeply rooted in their natural and cultural context.
For me, true luxury is about balance, beauty and presence. It does not try too hard to impress — it simply flows.
How does Casa de Uco stand apart from other boutique hotels?
We offer something more than just design or exclusivity — an honest sense of place, and of belonging. The hotel exists in harmony with the vineyard and the surrounding mountains, meaning that our identity is deeply intwined with the land. Guests don’t just come to stay; they come to feel, to explore, to participate. Unlike other boutique hotels that focus solely on aesthetic, Casa de Uco blends viticulture, nature and hospitality in a truly cohesive way. The beauty of the project lies in its balance: refined yet simple, elegant yet warm.
If a guest only had 24 hours to experience Casa de Uco, what would you recommend they do?
Start the morning with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, accompanied by homemade pastries and seasonal fruits, before setting out on a guided mountain trek to connect with the stark beauty of the valley. At midday, return for a traditional asado by the reservoir; an open-air lunch shared in good company, surrounded by stillness and nature. Afterwards, take time to unwind with a massage. In the afternoon, go horseback riding to our winery to experience a blending session, where you’ll explore different varietals and craft your own unique wine. Come evening, enjoy a seasonal tasting menu at our restaurant, made with ingredients grown in our garden and paired with wines that capture the sensory essence of the Uco Valley.
How would you describe your own perfect luxury travel experience?
For me, true luxury is about balance, beauty and presence. It does not try too hard to impress — it simply flows. Though every detail has been thoughtfully designed, nothing feels excessive or artificial, while nature is part of the experience, not just a backdrop. I value authenticity above all, with warm and intuitive service from a kind, attentive and genuinely present team committed to creating personalised experiences with care and sincerity. Also, food that expresses a sense of place, along with special moments that feel unrepeatable. In other words, real luxury is not about lots of amenities, but how thoughtfully and gracefully the essential things are done.
What is your vision for the future of the hotel?
We see Casa de Uco not as a finished project, but as a living ecosystem that continues to evolve over time. Our vision for the future is guided by the same principles that shaped the beginning: respect for nature, meaningful experiences and staying true to our roots. As Casa de Uco grows, we are focusing on expanding our private residences; spaces that allow guests to enjoy greater intimacy and ownership while still connected to the services and spirit of the hotel. We also envision the possibility of creating a new property in another location, founded on the same holistic philosophy that defines Casa de Uco.
Share this article
Latest stories
Making tracks: a train journey taking in six European cultural capitals
It’s official – inter-railing is back, as travellers increasingly swap flights for the speed and ease of Europe’s rail network. Think zippy connections, city-centre arrivals, and stress-free border crossings: train travel is one of the fastest, most convenient, and still sustainable ways to explore the continent. Get ready for a
Independent Minds: Sheila Kyarisiima, The Pinnacle Kigali
High above Kigali on Rebero Hill, The Pinnacle offers sweeping views across the city, bringing contemporary luxury together with a strong sense of place. What began as a private family retreat has evolved into a destination that celebrates Rwanda’s culture, creativity and community. Here its founder, Sheila Kyarisiima, shares the
A postcard from: Piedmont with Sina Villa Matilde
Piedmont may be one of Italy’s less-travelled regions, and that is precisely part of its appeal. Sitting at the foot of the Alps, the landscape is a mix of rolling hills, family-run wineries and elegant country estates, with excellent food and wine at its heart – some might even say
Our edit of hotels to book in October
From a colourful restored villa in glamorous Capri to a private island with overwater villas in Indonesia, October brings a new crop of hotels worth knowing about. These are the openings catching our eye this month – some are historic properties given a new chapter, while others bring contemporary flair
