7 Argentinian Recipes Sipping on Wine, Vermuth and Fernet

What to Expect from the 7 Argentinian Recipes Sipping Tour in Mendoza

This three-hour cooking experience in Mendoza combines the joy of making seven traditional Argentinian dishes with the pleasure of sipping local wines, vermouth, and Fernet. At just $95 per person, it’s a well-priced way to dive into Mendoza’s culinary scene, especially given the glowing reviews and small-group setting.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Adolfo Calle 36, and from there, you’re welcomed into a warm, friendly apartment where hosts David and Rosie set the tone for a relaxed, social evening. Expect to start with some local snacks and vermouth cocktails before rolling up your sleeves to cook. What really makes this experience shine are the personal touches—you learn not just the recipes, but also about Argentine culture and dining norms.

We particularly appreciate their focus on using readily available ingredients, making it easy to replicate the dishes at home. Plus, the small group size (limited to 6-8 people) ensures plenty of hands-on participation and personalized attention. However, a consideration might be that some participants prefer more structured or longer classes, as this one emphasizes a convivial, casual atmosphere.

If you love authentic food, good wine, and meeting like-minded travelers, this tour offers a wonderful mix of all three. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy cooking, culture, and lively conversation with a local family.

Key Points

• Authentic Argentine cuisine: Learn to prepare seven classic dishes with ingredients you can find at home.
• Local drinks: Sip vermouth cocktails, wines from nearby wineries, and Fernet—true Argentine favorites.
• Small-group intimacy: With only a handful of participants, you’ll enjoy personalized guidance and a friendly vibe.
• Cultural insights: Hosts share tips and norms that deepen your understanding of Argentine dining habits.
• Flexible participation: You only assemble a few items like empanadas and alfajors, allowing more time for tasting and socializing.
• Valuable experience: Great for travelers wanting a hands-on, authentic meal with a side of Argentine culture.

A Deep Dive into the Mendoza Cooking Experience

First impressions and setting: When we arrive at David and Rosie’s apartment, we’re greeted with a warm atmosphere that immediately sets the tone. The room is cozy, inviting, and clearly designed to make guests feel at home. Before we even start cooking, we enjoy some local snacks and Vermouth cocktails, which act as a perfect icebreaker and a taste of what’s to come.

The culinary lineup: The menu includes appetizers, a main, a side, and dessert—seven dishes in total. Each recipe uses straightforward ingredients, making it feasible to recreate at home after your trip. The dishes are traditional, yet accessible, with a focus on classic Argentinian flavors like empanadas, steak, and alfajors.

Hands-on participation: The tour limits the group to six people, ensuring everyone gets a chance to participate. For example, you’ll get to assemble empanadas and alfajors, which puts you right in the thick of things. David and Rosie are enthusiastic, offering helpful tips and cultural tidbits along the way. As one reviewer noted, “We all got to have a go at making empanadas, which was really fun,” highlighting the interactive nature of this class.

Wine and drink pairing: Throughout the class, we’re encouraged to sip unlimited wine from a nearby winery, which complements the dishes perfectly. Fernet, a popular herbal liqueur in Argentina, also makes an appearance, providing a more authentic local drinking experience. The drinks are served in a relaxed setting, encouraging conversation and laughter.

Cultural and culinary insights: Beyond recipes, the hosts share stories about Argentine dining customs and culinary norms, adding depth to the experience. One guest remarked, “I enjoyed learning about cultural norms in the dinner table,” emphasizing how this tour enriches your understanding of Argentina’s food etiquette.

Authentic, approachable, and fun: Many reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere, with guests praising the hosts’ enthusiasm and the chance to connect with fellow travelers. As Gal_C puts it, “The atmosphere was great, and we prepared a delicious meal. Very recommended!” This sentiment is echoed by others who appreciated the social aspect of the experience.

Value for money: For $95, you’re getting more than just a cooking class—you’re gaining a memorable cultural experience, new skills, and some fantastic food and wine. It’s an engaging way to spend an evening that feels well worth the investment.

Potential considerations: If you’re seeking a highly structured or longer class, this might feel a bit casual. Also, since the focus is on socializing and learning, some participants might prefer more advanced techniques. But for most, the relaxed, friendly environment outweighs these minor points.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authentic Argentine flavors are at the heart of this experience. From empanadas to Alfajors, each dish offers a taste of Mendoza’s culinary traditions. You’ll leave with recipes and skills that can be reproduced at home, making this a practical souvenir of your trip.

The wine and drink pairing elevates the class from merely cooking to an immersive cultural experience. Tasting local wines created a genuine sense of place, and the inclusion of Fernet reflects Argentine drinking habits.

Personalized guidance from hosts David and Rosie provides insights into Argentine dining customs and family recipes, making you feel like a guest in their home rather than just a tourist.

Small group size guarantees a lively, friendly atmosphere. This isn’t a large, impersonal class—expect plenty of interaction, laughs, and shared dishes.

Reviews confirm that many leave feeling connected both to Argentine cuisine and to new friends. One guest said, “I left with a bunch of new amigos,” emphasizing the social aspect.

What Could Be Improved?

While many find the experience perfect for its casual, social vibe, some might wish for more in-depth cooking instruction or a longer class. The focus on assembly rather than cooking the entire meal might also limit some participants’ experience. However, the overall value and authentic environment outweigh these minor drawbacks.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking authentic experiences. If you enjoy cooking, tasting local wines, and meeting new friends, you’ll find this tour a highlight of Mendoza. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to learn and laugh.

FAQ

How long does the experience last?
The tour is approximately three hours, offering enough time to cook, taste, and socialize without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
The information provided doesn’t specify dietary accommodations, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for personalized needs.

What is included in the price?
For $95, you get a hands-on cooking class, recipes, snacks, and unlimited wine from a local winery, plus local drinks like vermouth and Fernet.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Adolfo Calle 36, Mendoza, and concludes back at the same location.

What is the group size?
Groups are small, limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun way to dive into Mendoza’s food and wine scene, this 7 Argentinian Recipes Sipping Tour offers a blend of culinary tradition, local drinks, and cultural insights in a cozy setting. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to share a memorable evening of cooking and conversation. The small-group format and authentic atmosphere make it stand out among typical cooking classes.

While not overly formal or lengthy, it delivers genuine skills and stories that you’ll carry home—and perhaps recreate your favorite dishes at home. If you’re eager to enjoy Mendoza from a different perspective, this experience promises a delightful taste of Argentina’s culinary heart.

Enjoy your trip, and remember—sometimes the best souvenirs are the recipes and stories shared over good wine and great company.