In the heart of South America, far from the vineyards of his native Italy, Marco Salgarello is the mastermind of a culinary and cultural revolution revolving around wine. He is not a politician nor a revolutionary in the traditional sense. Instead, armed with an encyclopedic knowledge of Italian wines and a solid belief in the power of shared experiences, Marco is on a mission to elevate the Paraguayan palate, one curated wine at a time.
Marco’s Beginning
Marco’s journey involves diverse experiences and unwavering dedication to his craft. He was born in Verona, in the region of Veneto, in 1974. His roots are firmly planted in the city, which is centred between Venice and Milan. Verona is very steeped in history and renowned for its viticultural heritage. We can say that from most of the cities in Italy, but Verona is very one of the tops in this area of the country. From a young age, Marco was immersed in the world of wine. He learned the nuances of grape varietals, the intricacies of production, and the cultural significance of the drink that has shaped Italian identity for centuries.
Marco also had the chance – like many Italians – to play football. He played in Verona at the end of the 1980s and early 1990s, just after the likes of Angelo Peruzzi, a Juventus and Lazio legend. Another legend, manager Arrigo Sacchi, scouted Marco, hoping he would join him at AC Milan. While Marco did not have a twenty-year career, he still had the chance to play high-level football with all-time greats, which we cannot say for ourselves.
Mr. Worldwide
But Marco’s ambitions extended beyond the familiar landscapes of his homeland. He embarked on a global odyssey, traversing Europe, where he made himself known: “In Europe, everyone knows me.” His journey also led him to North America, such as the US, and South America, where he immersed himself in diverse cultures and industries. He gained experience in agriculture, furniture, and even luxury goods, developing his business acumen and understanding of global markets. A background with a leading European organic fertilizer company enriched his understanding of wine production. He also worked in Miami, Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil. For this reason, Marco is fluent in Italian, Spanish, English, French, and the “business language.” He effectively connects with diverse clients and partners from different backgrounds, enhancing his commitment to quality and authenticity.
Creating A Wine Culture
His passion for wine and cuisine remained a guiding star, eventually leading him to the beautiful country of Paraguay. Here, in this landlocked nation with a booming economy and a thirst for new experiences, Marco Salgarello saw an opportunity to make a real difference. In a country where beer often reigns supreme due to its affordability and accessibility, Marco saw a chance to introduce the nuances of Italian viticulture and elevate the dining experience. “The important is the culture. I am improving the wine culture. I am teaching to the best restaurants and I love it,” Salgarello observes, reflecting on the Paraguayan wine scene. His teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that wine should be integral to the dining experience. It should not be relegated to second place. He encourages his students to experiment, explore different flavour combinations, and develop their preferences.
His efforts are not without challenges. The European and South American wine scenes are entirely different. “In Italy, we have 500 types of grapes. Each city has a grape. In Argentina, there are around eight types.” Paraguay does not have a wine market as developed as Argentina, which means they mainly import from elsewhere.As Marco is a high-ranking importer: “Here in Paraguay, the others usually have four of the main wines. Now I have 25!”
Marco acknowledges the cultural differences and the prevailing preference for quantity over quality in some segments of the Paraguayan market. Despite this, he remains optimistic. Marco Salgarello believes that through education, exposure, and a commitment to excellence, he can gradually shift the culinary landscape and cultivate a greater appreciation for the art of wine and cuisine. His vision extends beyond restaurants and cooking schools. It has a broader aspect. He envisions a Paraguay where wine is celebrated as an integral part of the national identity, a symbol of sophistication, culture, and shared experiences.
Marco’s Approach
His approach is multifaceted. As a wine importer and distributor, he carefully curates a selection of Italian wines, focusing on quality and regional diversity. He navigates the complexities of the HORECA Sector (HOtel/REstaurant/CAfé – Hospitaliy Industry), supplying hotels, restaurants, and catering services with his carefully chosen wines. He also caters to private clients, offering personalised recommendations and pairings tailored to their individual tastes. But Marco Salgarello’s influence extends far beyond the realm of commerce. He is a culinary artist and educator, sharing his knowledge and passion through cooking classes and wine-pairing workshops. “If you have different kinds of foods, you can have different kinds of wines because wines are like, shoes. It depends on the occasion.” He is determined to introduce the nuances of Italian wine and cuisine. Marco’s passion extends beyond the plate and glass. He sees food, wine, and music essential to an extraordinary life. Marco Salgarello is the perfect definition of a bon vivant.
He organises wine and food events. These events are very popular here in Asunción. It is growing rapidly. It creates immersive experiences that showcase Marco’s Italian cuisine’s versatility and its wines’ nuances. These events are not about consumption. They are more than that. They are about education, learning, exploration, and creating lasting culinary memories. He emphasises on the importance of understanding ingredients, respecting cultural traditions, and creating harmonious pairings that elevate both foods and wines. Without a good pairing, the experience is totally different.
Salgarello’s commitment to quality extends to every aspect of his work. He insists on sourcing the finest ingredients, employing meticulous techniques, and maintaining the highest standards of service. He understands that creating a truly memorable dining experience requires attention to detail and a genuine passion for the craft. “When you have control, usually you have the best quality,” he said. It is an art that can be mastered over time, and it is always helpful to have a teacher like Marco around.
Marco’s Impact In Paraguay
Marco Salgarello has taught a lot of people how to taste, use, and like wine. He imported wines tailor-made for Paraguayan businesses, who are always liking his proposals. “Everybody knows me because I offer to all Paraguay.” Over time, he also met other influential people of the Italian community in the country. In July 2023, he met the Italian delegation led by Ambassador Marcello Fondi. Then President of Italy Sergio Mattarella was present at that event organised at the Bourbon Hotel.
Marco’s Journey
Marco Salgarello’s journey is not just about wine and food but also about cultural exchange. It is also about personal growth and the pursuit of a meaningful life. He sees his work as a way to connect people, to bridge cultural divides, and to create a more vibrant and enriching society. “I do it because I want to stay for at least ten years,” he says, reflecting on his long-term commitment to Paraguay. His dedication to quality, passion for his craft, and unwavering belief in the power of shared experiences make Marco Salgarello a true visionary. He is not just an importer or a culinary expert but a cultural ambassador and culinary innovator. “I am not important, I am just a person who loves art and good feelings that are reflected in the culture that includes gastronomy, music, poetry, theatre. Practically anything that gives emotions.” Marco’s journey has been shaped by his experiences in Italy, and he aims to bring more of that knowledge to Paraguay to make it the Meccah of wine. One bottle at the time…
