Rooted in Citrus, Rich in Culture The IFEAT Argentina Study Tour Experience – Lina Piccininni July 14, 2025

Rooted in Citrus, Rich in Culture The IFEAT Argentina Study Tour Experience
-Lina Piccininni
General Manager Ultra International Inc

Argentina plays a significant role in the global essential oils market, especially as a key supplier of citrus-based oils. Thanks to its favorable climate, robust agricultural infrastructure, and deep-rooted expertise in citrus and aromatic plant cultivation, Argentina has positioned itself as a leading exporter of high-quality essential oils. The country is the world’s largest producer and exporter of lemon essential oil. Its well-integrated citrus processing industry allows lemons to be harvested, juiced, and processed for oil and peel products all within the same companies. This ensures quality control and traceability, which are key selling points for global buyers.

The primary lemon-growing region, located around Tucumán in the northwest, offers ideal conditions for lemon production. Argentina also produces orange, grapefruit, and mandarin oils, along with a variety of native and specialty essential oils.

The IFEAT study tour adventure began on Sunday, April 6th, as delegates arrived in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, landing at either Ezeiza International Airport or Jorge Newbery Airport. After a smooth transfer, guests checked into the elegant Sofitel Recoleta Hotel, nestled in the heart of the city. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as participants received their welcome rucksacks and prepared for the week ahead.

That evening, the group gathered for a briefing session at the hotel to set the stage for the tour. As twilight settled over the city, we transferred to the stylish Cauce Restaurant in Puerto Madero. Over a gourmet dinner sponsored by San Miguel, conversations sparked and connections formed, setting a positive tone for the days to come.

 

On Monday, April 7th, the tour began bright and early with breakfast at the hotel. By 8:00 AM, everyone had checked out and was en route to the first industry visit: Flavour House Saporiti, located in Pilar’s industrial park. There, delegates explored the company’s innovative operations and learned about its contributions to the flavor world. Late morning brought a transfer back to the city, this time to the Casasur Bellini Hotel, where Litoral Citrus hosted a presentation paired with a catered lunch. The discussions offered rich insight into the processing of a wide range of citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, mandarins, and lemons. Next, the group took a short walk to visit Fueguia, an artisanal perfumery known for its exquisite scents and sustainable practices.

Divided into smaller groups, delegates enjoyed an intimate and immersive experience exploring the creative intersection of botanicals and perfumery. By 3:00 PM, it was time to head to Jorge Newbery Airport to catch the next flight onward to the Salta region, where the next chapter of the journey awaited.

 

On Tuesday, April 8th, the group journeyed north into the stunning landscapes of Salta province. The four-hour drive to Cafayate was breathtaking, as we were immersed in scenic valleys and dramatic terrain. Upon arrival, a warm welcome and lunch awaited us at the elegant Grace Hotel, a serene escape nestled among the vineyards. The afternoon featured a key highlight: an Essential Oil Workshop held at the Grace Club House and sponsored by Berjé. A series of presentations introduced other producers and suppliers from Argentina, highlighting essential oils beyond citrus. With a coffee break and vibrant discussions, the session offered a perfect blend of learning and networking. The day closed with a refined dinner at Piatelli Vineyards, where Jucofer hosted an unforgettable evening surrounded by Cafayate’s famed vines.

On Wednesday, April 9th, the group set off once again, this time heading toward Tucumán. The journey took us along a scenic route, crossing the Pre-Andes formation at an impressive 3,042 meters above sea level. Midday, we paused for lunch in the picturesque mountain town of Tafí del Valle. During the stop, representatives from the Northwest Argentine Citrus Association (ACNOA) the organization that unites the region’s citrus production, processing, and marketing sectors provided an insightful overview of the lemon value chain in Northwest Argentina.

 

In the afternoon, we visited Citromax, one of the country’s leading citrus producers. There, they explored the company’s extensive processing operations and learned about its commitment to sustainability. Thursday, April 10th, was packed with activity. The day began with a visit to a local Experimental Station, offering insight into regional agricultural research. That was followed by in-depth tours of Vicente Trapani and FGF Trapani, two industry leaders known for advanced citrus processing and essential oil production. A delicious on-site lunch was hosted by FGF, offering a chance to recharge before more exploration. The evening featured a scenic drive to Villa Polli, where Vicente Trapani treated the group to dinner under the stars in the leafy suburb of Yerba Buena.

On Friday, April 11th, delegates visited Lillo, a botanical research institution just steps from the hotel, delving into the science behind native flora. The foundation is dedicated to the research, protection, and dissemination of knowledge in natural sciences, including botany, zoology, and geology. The morning continued with a visit to Citrusvil, where the group toured local lemon groves. These vast, sun-drenched groves—organized in perfectly aligned rows are at the heart of one of the world’s largest lemon-producing operations. Walking through these groves was a sensory experience: the crisp scent of citrus oils lingered in the air, while vibrant fruit stood out against the lush green foliage.

“Throughout the tour, delegates explored and discussed in depth the growing, harvesting, processing, and diverse uses of many  essential oils particularly within Argentina’s vibrant citrus and essential oil sectors.”

In the afternoon, a visit to COTA further illuminated the complex supply chains and innovations in citrus production. At COTA, we had the chance to participate in a handson experience grafting our very own lemon trees! The team guided us through the process: starting with a sturdy rootstock, we carefully selected a scion, made precise cuts, and aligned the cambium layers so they could fuse and grow together. We wrapped  the graft with tape, labeled our trees, and left them to do their magic. It was a deeply satisfying experience knowing our graft might one day bear fruit in Argentina. As the sun set, attendees headed to Raco for a team-building session followed by a cocktail dinner  sponsored by COTA, celebrating the collaboration and camaraderie built over the week.

During the tour, we also participated in a fun and meaningful team-building exercise centered around a lively game of soccer. Through interactive challenges, we strengthened trust, leadership skills, and collaboration in a dynamic and engaging way. The activity offered a fresh perspective on what open communication, mutual support, and effective teamwork truly look like in the workplace.

The final field day, Saturday, April 12th, began with a hearty breakfast and check-out from the Hilton Garden Inn. The group visited San Miguel, one of the region’s largest and most globally active citrus companies. This was followed by a closing lunch at the scenic San Pablo Country Club, hosted by Citrus & Allied, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and reflection.

Throughout the tour, delegates explored and discussed in depth the growing, harvesting, processing, and diverse uses of many essential oils particularly within Argentina’s vibrant citrus and essential oil sectors. We were generously hosted by the companies we visited, treated to thoughtful gifts, and enjoyed delicious local cuisine and cultural entertainment throughout the journey.

Special thanks go to the Local Organising Committee -Sergio Dávalos and Andres Gonzalez, our tour agents Yulia Romero and Matias Molina, and the many Argentinian companies that participated. The entire IFEAT team also deserves sincere congratulations for delivering yet another memorable and enriching Study Tour. We found the experience not only wonderful and unforgettable, but also, in many ways, life changing.