Small group, escorted luxury tour led by experts
Written by The Biltmore Beacon
Well-known Western North Carolina chef Ricardo Fernandez Battini announced dates for the seventh Culinary Wine Tour to Argentina, Nov. 6 — 21, 2023.
In a land of brilliant landscapes, tantalizing aromas, elegance and world-class wines, Fernandez and his wife, Suzanne, have redefined the notion of “getting away from it all,” by creating the trip of a lifetime.
“This tour is the finest culinary and wine travel in Argentina,” Battini said. “Our guests are immersed in the best of Argentina’s food, wine and cultural experiences.”
During the two-week tour, the itinerary includes the old-world elegance of Buenos Aires, the highest vineyards in the world in Cafayate, Salta, the high plateaus of Mendoza wine-making areas and San Carlos de Bariloche, called the “jewel of Patagonia.”
Through Battini’s personal connections from his homeland, participants will meet winemakers, and experience private tastings and culinary opportunities not found elsewhere.
“Guests enjoy world-class accommodations and an exclusive insider food and wine experience,” Suzanne said. “Our tours are the perfect blend of guided adventure and leisure, including luxurious spas, museums, art, shopping, tango or simply taking in the view.”
During their 27 years as residents of North Carolina, Battini and his wife are well-known in WNC culinary circles for launching one of the first farm-to-table restaurants in the region, the Lomo Grill.
After operating a catering business and monthly cooking classes, the couple curated an immersive first-class excursion taking food and wine lovers to Argentina, beginning the first tour in 2015.
“Seeing the grapes on the vine growing against the backdrop of the Andes, then venturing inside for a private lunch and tasting with the vintner, it is simply unbelievable,” Battini said. “You can’t get this kind of intimate experience anywhere else.”
“Whether you’re lured by the romance of winemaking, cosmopolitan city life, or the natural beauty of Patagonia, we have the perfect itinerary for you,” Suzanne said.
The privately escorted trips cover all in-country flights, transfers, hotels, wine tastings and some meals.