Pablo Rivero: The Visionary Behind Don Julio and Argentina’s Wine Renaissance

In 1999, a young Pablo Rivero, fueled by a passion for food, wine, and family, embarked on a journey that would transform the culinary landscape of Buenos Aires. Alongside family and friends, he opened a modest parrilla in the Palermo neighborhood. What began as a small family-run steakhouse soon grew into an international sensation, earning accolades as the No.1 restaurant in Latin America in 2020 and consistently ranking on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Don Julio is more than just a restaurant; it represents a new era of gastronomy where simplicity and excellence converge. The foundation of its success lies in three pillars: perfectly grilled Argentinian steak, exceptional service, and a wine collection that celebrates the diversity and richness of Argentine terroir. At the helm of this culinary empire is Rivero, whose leadership and innovation have cemented Don Julio as a beacon of “new luxury” in dining.

A Sommelier’s Journey to Excellence

Rivero’s expertise isn’t confined to hospitality. He trained as a sommelier, graduating in 2006 from the prestigious Escuela Argentina de Vinos, part of one of Argentina’s first sommelier classes. This deep knowledge of wine became the cornerstone of Don Julio’s success. Under his guidance, the restaurant’s wine cellar has grown from 700 carefully curated labels in 2017 to over 14,000 exclusively Argentine labels in 2024. This remarkable growth reflects Rivero’s commitment to showcasing the depth and variety of Argentina’s wine regions.

Each year, Rivero and his team undertake a rigorous, months-long selection process to expand their wine collection. Through blind tastings, they identify new labels that embody the spirit and excellence of Argentine wine. This meticulous approach ensures that Don Julio remains a leader in the global wine scene.

A Tradition of Moments and Memories

One of Don Julio’s most beloved traditions is as heartfelt as it is unique. When diners order a special bottle from the cellar, they’re invited to write a personal message on the empty bottle before it is displayed on the restaurant’s walls. For Rivero, these bottles symbolize more than wine—they encapsulate moments, emotions, and shared experiences. “Wine is emotion, terroir, and landscape,” he says, and his vision brings this sentiment to life with every dining experience.

A Global Icon in the Wine World

Rivero’s impact extends far beyond Don Julio. Recognized as Beronia World’s Best Sommelier 2024, he is celebrated for his innovation, profound knowledge, and ability to communicate the magic of wine. This prestigious accolade, awarded by an esteemed panel of 1,080 global experts, cements Rivero’s reputation as a leader in the wine industry. He has become a role model for sommeliers and restaurateurs across Latin America and the world.

Pablo Rivero’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and vision. Through Don Julio, he has elevated Argentine cuisine and wine to global prominence, leaving an indelible mark on the culinary world. His journey continues to inspire, proving that excellence, when paired with authenticity, creates an experience that transcends borders.

Contact

Guatemala 4699, C1425 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina

+54 11 4832-6058Visit Pablo Rivero's WebsiteVisit Pablo Rivero on Instagram