Spain is without a doubt one of the amazing winemaking countries. I first had the experience of Spanish winemaking when I went on a tour to Rioja back in 1997. One week later I had gained invaluable experience and tasted some remarkable wines. I learned so much about the oak process from Crianza to Reserva and then Gran Reserva.
I am a fan of the great Contino estate in Rioja. In the picture attached we are in the grounds of Contino in anticipation of a fine tasting. I had the honour of tasting the 1981 vintage!
CVNE is another wonderful winery and well worth looking at the Imperial or the Viña Real. It’s truly amazing how these wines age.
As Sue and I spend a lot of time in Marbella, we have our own list of favourite restaurants. We often visit Origen, a renowned Argentinan steak house where they offer the superb Remelluri Reserva. A must visit.
We love our Cava, so clean and crisp. It’s always a winner to get the evening underway!
Priorat & Ribera de Duero are two other regions well worth visiting. Stunning countryside and amazing wines. In Ribera afford yourself the opportunity to taste the famous Vegas Sicilia Unico.
A number of years ago, my father Liam and I had the pleasure of a private tasting in the Torres winery in Villafranca de Penedes presented by the great Miguel Torres himself! We tasted a superb range and I cannot recommend this estate highly enough. On leaving Dad and I were presented with two beautifully gold plated and engraved corkscrews from Señor Torres. A few years later I had the honour of presenting a Torres tasting with Miguel in Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. Such an honour.
As I write to you I sit in Shannon airport awaiting to board for Malaga. I look forward to superb wines and food in Marbella and have some wonderful recommendations which I’m happy to share.
Happy wining and dining!🙏🍷🍾
Nick
Master Sommelier