Bolstering my Enthusiasm for all things España - Reflecting on The Spanish Wine Educator Course
November 2024 will forever stand out in my mind as a whirlwind of flavours, knowledge, and inspiration. I was thrilled to be selected to attend the Spanish Wine Educator course, hosted in Madrid by ICEX and The Wine Studio. Over five days, this immersive programme brought together wine enthusiasts and professionals from around the world to explore the vast and nuanced landscape of Spanish wines. Here’s a glimpse into this unforgettable experience.


Day 1: Setting the Stage
The week began with a warm welcome at The Wine Studio in Madrid’s chic Salamanca neighbourhood. The introductions quickly revealed the diversity of our group: sommeliers, wine educators, and industry professionals, all united by a shared passion for Spanish wine. We dove straight into the heart of it with a session on current trends in Spanish winemaking. From the versatility of Tempranillo to a tasting that showcased the potential of lesser-known varietals like Caiño Tinto, each sip painted a story of innovation and tradition.
Lunch that day was a revelation. Held at Copa de Balón La Casita, it featured a pairing of Sherry wines with regional dishes. Claudia Gozalbes, Head Sommelier at Four Seasons Madrid, guided us through the intricate art of pairing food with Sherry—a skill I’ll be practising every chance I get!
Day 2: Icons and Innovations
The second day highlighted Spain’s iconic wines and its bestsellers, led by none other than Ferrán Centelles, former sommelier at El Bulli. Tasting Mas Doix Doix 2014 from Priorat alongside a 1964 Gran Fondillón from Alicante reminded me of the sheer depth of history and craftsmanship behind each bottle. That evening’s dinner at Amazónico Madrid, hosted by OIVE, added a glamorous touch with a pairing menu that effortlessly bridged modern cuisine with classic wines.
Day 3: Regions of Distinction
From the Ebro River Valley to the Pyrenees and the Atlantic coast, Day 3 was a journey through Spain’s diverse wine regions. Sandra Bravo’s session on Sierra de Toloño’s high-altitude Garnacha vines left me in awe of the connection between terroir and wine expression. A standout tasting featured Guímaro’s A Ponte 2021 from Ribeira Sacra—a wine that encapsulated the freshness and minerality of its steep, slate-laden vineyards.


Day 4: Into the Countryside
We traded Madrid’s urban energy for the serene landscapes of Gredos and Rueda. Las Pedreras Viñedos y Vinos introduced us to their old vine Garnacha—a study in resilience and elegance. At Bodegas Félix Lorenzo Cachazo, we delved into the story of Verdejo, from its near extinction to its revival as Rueda’s signature varietal. Walking among pre-phylloxera vines over 150 years old was a humbling experience—a vivid reminder of the living history in every glass.
Day 5: Ribera del Duero’s Grandeur
Our final day brought us to the legendary Vega Sicilia and Garmón Continental in Ribera del Duero. Tasting the iconic Vega Sicilia Único, aged for a decade, was a moment to savour—its complexity and depth a testament to meticulous winemaking. Garmón’s focus on high-altitude Tempranillo rounded out the day, showcasing the future of Ribera’s expressive reds.
Beyond the Classroom
This course was as much about the people as the wines. Sharing meals, conversations, and countless toasts with my fellow participants created connections that I’m sure will last a lifetime. Our discussions ranged from vineyard practices to favourite wine books, each exchange deepening my understanding and appreciation of Spain’s wine culture. My fellow students came from far and wide, representing some of the most accomplished wine professionals in the industry - Serbia, Japan, Germany, Mexico, Korea, the U.K., Sweden, Australia, America, and Brazil, our backgrounds are so varied but this week further cemented my belief that wine is a connector. We can speak different languages, and live in different cultures yet our passion for wine unites us.
A Parting Thought
The Spanish Wine Educator course was more than an educational programme. It was an experience that left me inspired, challenged, and even more deeply connected to the wines of Spain. Whether it was discovering new producers, revisiting old favourites, or simply walking the vibrant streets of Madrid, every moment was a reminder of why I fell in love with wine in the first place.
To anyone considering applying, I say: go for it. Bring an open mind, a curious palate, and a love for storytelling. Spain’s wines have so many stories to tell—and now, I feel ready to help share them.