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,” Chef Ricardo 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.”

“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 Haywood County, Chef Ricardo and Suzanne are well-known in Western North Carolina 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.

      Through Chef Ricardo’s personal connections from his homeland, participants will meet winemakers and experience private tastings and culinary opportunities not found elsewhere.

“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,” said Ricardo. “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.

Culinary Wine Tour — Argentina

Buenos Aires - Cafayate, Salta, Mendoza, San Carlos de Bariloche Nov. 7 – 21, 2022

Escorted by WNC residents, Chef Ricardo Fernandez Battini and Suzanne Fernandez

A few highlights:

Wineries

Visit wineries in spectacular settings, including Bodega El Porvenir de Cafayate, Piattelli Winery, Finca El Retiro, El Esteco Winery, Bodega Piedra Infinita, Bodega DiamAndes Winery, San Pedro de Yacochuya Winery, Catena Zapata Winery, Salentein Winery and more.

Buenos Aires Tango show

Dinner at Gala Tango Show —

Buenos Aires shopping and sights

Visit the Teatro Colón, main opera house in Buenos Aires, ranked third best opera house in the world, with a private guided English tour. Enjoy shopping through Patio Bullrich and Galeria Pacifico.

San Carlos Bariloche

Private tour of Circuito Chico with Lago Nahuel Huapi, ending in downtown Barlioche. Enjoy staying at a luxury lodge and spa.

The tour includes domestic airfare within Argentina; private shuttle transport to and from airports in Argentina and hotels in Argentina.

See the full itinerary at www.argentinaculinarywinetours.com. Bookings for the 2022 tour are being taken now.

To ensure a quality, intimate experience, space is limited to 14 guests. For further information or to inquire about the November 2022 tour, contact Ricardo Fernandez Battini at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (828) 246-7542.