A lazy day in Cafayate

Not being in a mad rush to leave Cafayate, I spent a day driving around the area, stopping at the Ruins of Quilmes, and visiting the nearby vineyards. I was interested in the ruins because the name Quilmes is to Argentina what Guinness is to Ireland, Tiger is to Singapore and Carlsberg is to verbally-abused curry houses the world over. It´s a national institution.

Entering the site, you are given a pamphlet filled with ´fight the power´ guerrilla propaganda, written by the descendents of the indigenous Quilmes people. Their history is one of perpetual resistance, first against the Incas, followed by near extermination by the Spanish.

A time to reflect on history. 

As I left the ruins, I wondered if the descendents who continue to run this place feel good or bad about the fact that their venerable name is now entrenched in modern Argentine culture - however soberingly - for the purpose of selling beer. 

Moving on swifty from beer to wine, the rest of the day was spent back in Cafayate, driving from vineyard to vineyard in search of one that was actually open at this time of year. I needn´t have tried so hard, as the Vasija Secreta vineyard turned out to be an epic 5-minute drive from the lovely Hotel Killa.

Back in Cafayate

Tasting the local Malbec and Torrontes.

Time to plan for tomorrow

And wait for the sun to set.

Back at the ranch.

Hotel Killa, Cafayate. Value-for-money wise, best B&B in Argentina.