Ilustrated talks on Wines of Spain & Portugal

The best-known fortified wines from Portugal and its island colony of Madeira have their roots firmly embedded in British trading history going back over 500 years as revealed by some of the most famous names on their bottles

Sherry had established a fine reputation throughout the world during the 16th century Elizabethan era, which in turn opened up the British market. After many peaks and troughs, it is back in favour with a healthy cocktail culture

Galicia in North West Spain has a unique climate and terrain compared to the rest of the country which provides ideal conditions for producing white wines of world class from the Albarino grape. Quality red wines can also be found in the region. 

The Basque Country features three regions producing sparking dry white wines known as Txakoli. Neighbouring Rioja provides a plethora of wines, most notably reds made from Tempranillo grapes.

Catalonia in North East Spain is the most pioneering wine region in the country. The Penedes appellation produces nearly of all of the nation’s Cava white sparkling wine in addition to award-winning reds from Priorat & Montsant.

High altitude vineyards in Malaga and Montilla-Moriles for centuries have made notable fortified wines from local grapes in a region more noted for leisure tourism than wine making. Exciting developments now see excellent expressions in a range of other wines.