The History of Tapas – A Virtual Evening in Spain – March 26, 2021
Are you a pragmatist and believe the theory that covering the top of the wine glass with a piece of bread or meat to protect it from flies was the inception of tapas? Or are you a monarchist and believe the story that while recovering from an illness, King Alfonse X of Castile drank wine with small dishes between meals? Or are you a bit cheeky and believe the theory that King Philip III imposed a law requiring alcohol be served with food in an effort to curb the behavior of rowdy Spanish sailors and soldiers?
These origin stories and others were discussed as chapter member Jim Henry hosted a Virtual Evening in Spain. Our goal was to explore Spain’s various wine regions, enjoying succulent tapas, as we sampled Spanish wines beyond the most well-known Rioja and Cava. Tapas was provided by Burlington-based local restaurant Barra Fion
Tapas served:
Ceviche Shrimp with crostini
Serrano Croquettes
Smoked chicken Empanadas
Meatballs in marinara
Serrano Manchego (ham, cheese, dried fruit & nuts)
Garlic cream artichokes
Red wine poached chorizo
Spanish tortilla
Recommended Spanish wines:
GRAN RESERVA
Monasterio de las Viñas Gran Reserva
RESERVA – WHITE
Paco & Lola Albariño, Alvarinho
Toro Bravo Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc DO La Mancha, Sauvignon Blanc
RESERVA – RED
Torres Gran Coronas Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon
Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva
Muga Reserva
Lealtanza Reserva 2015, Tempranillo
Gran Feudo Reserva
CRIANZA
Montecillo Rioja DOCa Crianza – Rioja
CAVA
Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava
Freixenet Carta Nevada Brut Cava
