Travel Guide to Portugal

Ryan Opaz

Born in Minnesota, Ryan is the co-founder and CEO of Catavino . He's also a Knight of the Port Wine Brotherhood, Certified Port Wine Educator and Certified Sherry Educator. Although a chef at heart, Ryan's time is spent giving workshops and speeches internationally on social media and blogging for wineries. Examples of his work include: Wine Future, London International Wine Fair, Essência do Vinho, WBIS, Fine Wine, and many more. He currently lives in Porto, Portugal where he explores the country with his camera and family. Check out his photos.

Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Portugal’s UNESCO Heritage Sites

Gorgeous nature, rich history and an incredible wealth amassed during the medieval and colonial times have nurtured the existence of 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout Portugal. Ratified and put into effect in 1975, the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage administered by UNESCO, has been fundamental in preserving historic …

Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Portugal’s UNESCO Heritage Sites Read More »

A Beginner’s Guide to Madeira Wine

Did you know that Madeira was poured during Thomas Jefferson’s toast at the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, or that it was savored at the inauguration of George Washington shortly thereafter? At one time, Madeira was so ubiquitous that it perfumed ladies’ handkerchieves; was given to military personnel for service of their country; and was frequently …

A Beginner’s Guide to Madeira Wine Read More »

The Start of a Portuguese Beer Revolution?

Upon our arrival to Spain, beer was an afterthought. Cheap lagers dominated the landscape with their banal, indifferent flavors that paired well with a sunny terrace. But in 2008, everything changed. With the enormous wave of craft beers pouring through the USA, Spain prepared for its own beer revolution. The initial beer movement began in the northeastern region of Catalunya, …

The Start of a Portuguese Beer Revolution? Read More »

Sunny and Special Chiringuitos: The Best Beachside Dining in Barcelona

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 »

Spain’s First Microbrewery and the Spanish craft beer movement

To claim that Spain is Europe’s next craft beer hotspot is perhaps too bold a statement, but the world’s largest producer of wine is finally giving craft beer connoisseurs good reason to get excited. While Spain is also Europe’s 3rd largest beer producer following Germany and the UK, until recently that production offered little more …

Spain’s First Microbrewery and the Spanish craft beer movement Read More »