Explore Spain and Portugal

There are many changes going on in Spain and Portugal and these two countries have increasingly grabbed attention in the wine world. 

There is more to Portugal than Port. The cool areas on the north-west coast produce intriguing white wines while in the Douro Valley they have been exploiting dark grapes to make robust, ripe, chocolatey table wines. In the south we find Ribetajo, Alentejo and the Algarve (where Cliff Richard has a winery) all capable of producing interesting wines.

Spain makes interesting white wines such as fragrant Albarino from Galicia, with a peachy soft juiciness (reminiscent of Chardonnay balanced by the crisp finish of a Sauvignon Blanc). And when it comes to reds does Rioja still rule the roost or can regions like Ribera del Duero or Priorat knock it off its perch?

We'll finish with a miracle wine that survives pairing any sweet dessert including chocolate or ice cream. But is it from Portugal or from Spain?

During the evening we will cover:

• common grapes used in Spain and Portugal  
• climate differences and what that means for the wines
• mastering Rioja and understanding recent changes 
• the amazing world of fortified wines

Our tastings include a minimum of 6 wines sourced locally so you can find them easily if you like them, full tasting notes, use of professional tasting glasses and a focus on food pairing.

All our courses can be purchased as a Gift either as a dated or undated voucher.