From the moment the elegant invitation arrived—courtesy of the Consul General of Argentina in New York, Ambassador Gerardo Diaz Bartolomé, on behalf of Captain Jorge Gabriel Caceres and the crew of the Argentine Navy Frigate ARA Libertad—I knew this would be one of the season’s most special experiences.
The tall ship was in New York as part of Sail 250, the grand international maritime celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States’ Independence. Six years in the planning, this gathering brought together magnificent vessels and people from around the globe. Stepping aboard the historic ARA Libertad felt like entering a floating piece of Argentine pride and naval tradition.
What made the evening truly magical was the warmth of the connections. I had the pleasure of meeting new friends from Argentina, Australia, Thailand, Mexico, and South Africa—fellow lovers of culture, sea stories, and shared moments of discovery. The special meet-and-greet with the officers and crew was a highlight:
- Vice Admiral Juan Romay, Chief of General Staff of the Argentine Navy
- Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello of the US Fourth Fleet
- And, always a joy, Consul General “Gerry” Diaz Bartolomé himself
Their pride in the ship, the mission, and the enduring friendship between our nations was palpable.
And then came the delicious surprise.
A kind naval officer, noticing my interest in all things gastronomic, introduced me to panqueques con dulce de leche—delicate crêpes generously filled with that rich, caramelized, almost addictive dulce de leche Argentina does so perfectly. One bite and I was transported: silky, comforting, with that perfect balance of sweetness and depth. It was pure joy wrapped in a warm crêpe, served with big smiles and stories from the high seas.
This sweet treat instantly brought back memories of my unforgettable press trip with the Wines of Argentina group—my dear “Las Hermanas” sisterhood. During that journey, we visited Terrazas de los Andes in Mendoza, where the high-altitude vineyards produce wines of remarkable elegance and intensity. Their Reserva Malbec 2023 is an absolute stunner: plush dark fruit, velvety tannins, and a beautiful structure that reflects the power and purity of the Andean terroir.
While the panqueques were a delightful onboard discovery, I can already imagine how beautifully that Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2023 would shine with a proper Argentine asado—a traditional barbecue with assorted cuts of meat sizzling over charcoal in a lively social feast — each bite aboard the ARA Libertad was one salivating moment after another. The wine’s ripe blackberry, plum, and subtle spice notes cut through richness while its freshness keeps everything lively. Even with the dulce de leche crêpes, a sip of this Malbec offers a lovely contrast, bridging sweet and savory in true Argentine spirit.
Events like this remind me why I do what I do—wine and food are bridges. They connect people across oceans, cultures, and histories. Standing on the deck of the ARA Libertad, surrounded by international guests, naval heroes, and the lights of New York, I felt that sense of global conviviality that makes our world feel a little smaller and much sweeter.
A heartfelt thank you to the Argentine Consulate in New York, the Captain and crew of the ARA Libertad, and everyone who made Sail 250 such a memorable celebration. ¡Salud y hasta la próxima!