From Walnut Orchard to World Champion: Cruz Velazco Alfajores Take Gold – Breaking News!
La Rioja, Argentina – In a sweet victory for Argentine entrepreneurship, family-run business Cruz Velazco has clinched not one, but two gold medals at the prestigious Alfajor World Cup. This breaking news story highlights a remarkable journey from a small walnut farm in the Guanchín mountains to international acclaim, showcasing the power of adding value to raw agricultural products. This isn’t just a win for Cruz Velazco; it’s a signal to producers across Argentina – and the world – that artisanal quality and innovation can thrive.
The Roots of a Champion: A Walnut Farm’s Evolution
The story began in 2018, but its foundation was laid decades earlier. María Martínez’s father, Alfredo, has been cultivating walnuts in La Rioja for 40 years. Recognizing the potential beyond simply selling raw materials, María and Diego Specioso, along with Cruz Velazco, began experimenting. “Argentina is very good at producing raw materials, but it does not always decide to transform it,” María explains. Their 45-hectare farm, nestled 20 kilometers from Chilecito, is home to approximately 11,000 Chandler walnut trees, perfectly adapted to the region’s climate. The initial challenge wasn’t just growing the nuts, but overcoming the region’s persistent water scarcity, requiring investment in a sophisticated drip irrigation system and careful water management.
From Experimentation to Gold: The Birth of Cruz Velazco
What started as a playful exploration of recipes – walnut flour, doughs, chocolates – quickly gained traction. Friends and family raved about their creations, leading to orders for private events. By 2023, the demand had become undeniable. María left her job to fully dedicate herself to the burgeoning business, officially establishing Cruz Velazco. Crucially, they prioritized compliance, patenting the name, registering with the Food Secretariat of Córdoba, and ensuring full factory authorization. This meticulous approach proved invaluable when they entered the Alfajor World Cup in Palermo.
A Double Gold Win: Traditional & Exotic Flavors Shine
Competing against 500 products, Cruz Velazco’s traditional walnut alfajor took home gold for best traditional flavor in 2023. The combination of walnut flour, rich dulce de leche, and a smooth chocolate coating proved irresistible. But they didn’t stop there. This year, at the Alfajor World Cup in Costa Salguero, they presented a daring new creation: an alfajor filled with chocolate ganache infused with coffee liqueur. It won another gold medal, this time for best exotic flavor, beating out 600 competitors. This demonstrates a remarkable ability to honor tradition while embracing innovation – a key ingredient for success in today’s competitive food market.
Beyond the Alfajor: Inspiring a New Generation of Argentine Producers
Cruz Velazco’s success isn’t just about delicious alfajores. It’s about demonstrating the value of adding value. María emphasizes, “For me it is very important to show what we do, to show that it is key to provide added value because this infects other producers who perhaps have very good products but do not dare to take the step.” Their story is a powerful example of how small businesses can thrive by focusing on quality, sustainability, and a commitment to their roots. The recognition from the Río Cuarto Shopping Center as an outstanding woman in Industry and their representation of Córdoba at La Rural de Palermo further solidify their position as a rising star in the Argentine food scene.
The story of Cruz Velazco is a testament to the enduring spirit of Argentine entrepreneurship and the power of transforming agricultural bounty into globally recognized delicacies. It’s a reminder that even in a complex and changing world, dedication to quality and a willingness to innovate can yield truly sweet rewards. Their journey is inspiring producers across Argentina to consider the possibilities beyond raw materials, paving the way for a more vibrant and diversified agricultural future.