Argentina and Chile visit-- how long would it take get a reasonable impression of the scope of things?

Question from a MW friend:

When you visited South American did you visit both Argentina and Chile? I'm thinking about a trip for research on my book and wondering about the logistics of doing both countries as opposed to only Argentina. How long did it take you get around, how many days would be needed to get a reasonable impression of the scope of things? Any thoughts you may have would be helpful.

Response from me:

Yes, I visited both Argentina and Chile for two weeks each in April this year.

Chile -- within a week you could do Aconcagua to Maule and hit the major central regions. I went as far north as Elqui and Limari and although interesting, not as important yet. I would also suggest visiting Chile's three largest wineries, Concha y Toro, San Pedro, and Santa Rita. They own over 77% of sales volume.

http://www.conchaytoro.com/FilesMC/fact_sheet_2009_ING.pdf

Market Share
(in volume terms)
Domestic Market Sales
(Millions of Chilean pesos)
Sales Volume
(Thousands of liters)

Santa Rita
28.7%
Concha y Toro
29.7%
San Pedro
20.4%
Santa Carolina
2.0%
Tarapacá
2.6%
Other
16.6%

In Argentina, Cuyo (Mendoza and surrounds) is doable in a week. I can look on my itinerary to suggest some not to be missed spots such as Carlos Pulenta in Lujan and O Fournier in Uco. I also went to the north to Salta(beautiful and pergola training), but, I believe that over 90% of exports come from Mendoza and surrounds.

I would also try to make an appointment with Susanna Balbo of Crios Wines(and more) in Lujan. She is the president of the Wines of Argentina and a wealth of knowledge. She is putting together a tasting panel of MWs for an upcoming event. I had lunch with her at Gotham a week ago. Please let me know if you want her contact info.

I've also heard good things about the biodynamic work that Alvaro Espinoza has done in both countries.

Please be sure to use the contacts at both Wines of Chile and Wines of Argentina. I found them very helpful.

I think you could do one week at each to get a reasonable impression of the significant regions.

What else would be helpful?