Sam Zucker is far from a Spanish native, but his passion and dedication to Spain has been profound. For years, he’s written on Catavino, not only infusing his writing with his love of food and wine, but for discovering the undiscovered nooks and crannies of Spain. (header photo by Sam Zucker) Sam Zucker’s Top 5 …
Cadaqués is a beautiful white and blue fishing town two and a half hours north of Barcelona, and is considered by many to be the “Pearl of the Costa Brava.” The history of Cadaqués is tied into a long tradition of fishing, agriculture, and viticulture, so make the most of your time in this charming …
There is a saying in the Catalan language: sense foc no hi ha festa (without fire, there is no festival), and they aren’t exaggerating. Indeed, the region’s pyromaniacal bent may be the most evolved and embraced in the nation, yet flames, explosions, devils, and beasts play a role in many vaguely Christian celebrations all throughout …
Flirting with Fire: Inside the Fire Festivals of Spain Read More »
“Claret is the liquor for boys; port, for men; but he who aspires to be a hero must drink brandy…There are, indeed, few who are able to drink brandy. That is a power rather to be wished for than attained.” – Samuel Jackson Sipping brandy neat—no ice, no mixer—is an acquired taste for most, and like …
Thanksgiving is a famed holiday in the European community. Non-American friends and co-workers repeatedly ask when this epic meal occurs (hinting for an invite), and nearly all Americans living here agree that the best part of having an authentic Thanksgiving meal on foreign soil is sharing the experience with at least one first-timer every year. …
Thanksgiving in Iberia: An Ode to Port Wine and Stuffed Fowl! Read More »
The city of Santiago de Compostela is really more of a town than a city. It’s small, yet bustling with university students, locals, tourists, and—of course—road-weary pilgrims soaking up the glory of a long road traveled. The Camino de Santiago is the city’s biggest claim to fame—a Medieval pilgrimage taken for centuries by Christians to …
First things first: Barcelona is NOT a city where you can walk into any random restaurant and expect an “at least decent” meal. Yes, this food Mecca is full of amazing cuisine, culture, craftsmanship, tradition and innovation; however, it’s also full of businesses (restaurants and otherwise) that are operated with the sole purpose of capturing …
Sunny and Special Chiringuitos: The Best Beachside Dining in Barcelona Read More »
In Spain and Portugal, the grill is an indispensable tool, whether it be a flat-top griddle (plancha), a wood-fired pit, or a traditional barbecue, fueled with a fragrant mix of charcoal and hay (like those used to grill calçots). Unlike “American Barbecue” that focuses heavily on sauces, marinades, slow-cooking, and smoke, Iberian barbecue is all …
Welcome to the Vi Jazz festival in Vilafranca del Penedés: balmy summer nights, free Jazz concerts galore, and abundant local wine in the historic center of this modest Catalán city of around 40,000 inhabitants. Dating back to the 12th century, Vilafranca is the economic engine and heart of the Penedés wine industry. While Penedés garners …
