The Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino Español’s Annual Investiture Dinner is always a fabulous affair with great food and wine and plenty of opportunities to network as you can see in the video above.
The inaugural Island Wines Summit took place in Tenerife last week, with the presence of several Caballeros del Vino Español among the delegates and speakers. Organised by Vocento Gastronomia with support from ICEX, Wines of Tenerife and the Tenerife local government and tourist board, the event brought together wine specialists from all over the world for three days of tastings, seminars and visits.
Recently inducted Caballero Josep Roca kicked off the event with an inaugural tasting entitled “Marine Wines without Borders” – a multi-disciplinary tasting that explored Island Wines throughout history, touching upon themes such as volcanism and the cultural importance of wine in modern times.
The six recipients of the Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino Español 40th anniversary mentorship and bursary programme were also invited to attend. Alberto Borge, Miguel Crunia, Josef Emmett, Charlie Foley, Nancy Green and Isobel Salomon enjoyed the programme of tastings, presentations and hospitality.
Several of the mentees also participated in the “Rethinking Spain: a Wine Strategy Experience.” Organised by Foods and Wines from Spain, they joined a delegation of 57 international wine experts from Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, South Korea, the UK, and the US in discussing and defining the future strategy for Spanish wine.
More on the activity and the final manifesto that was defined by the international group can be found on the Foods and Wines from Spain website.
The Island Wines Summit brings together Caballeros and Mentees in Tenerife
Your Excellency; Acting Chancellor; Vice Chancellor; New Caballeros; friends and colleagues in the world of wine in Spain and the UK, and especially those who have made the journey from ICEX in Madrid to join us: Welcome.
And a very special welcome to those who have not attended before.
I’m very pleased to welcome Her Excellency Doña Emma Aparici Vazquez de Parga. She joined us just before Christmas. And is the first ever woman Ambassador from Spain to the UK. In fact Catherine of Aragon could be said to have been the first in 1507. But to all intents and purposes we welcome Her Excellency as the first. I am also really delighted to welcome Doña Amparo López de Senovilla, Secretary of State for Trade, and our Acting Chancellor.
As you know this is a unique event in the wine trade in the UK. No other country or region does anything like this. I became a Caballero in 2010, and used to come as a guest before that in the early 2000s. I can still remember the excitement I felt at seeing the world of Spanish wine in one place. Then as now our dinners are a terrific opportunity to celebrate and to network. Take the opportunity this evening to make new connections and to relax with old friends.
Last autumn the Caballeros launched their first mentor programme and we have six excellent winners. Our hope is that they will be Ambassadors for Spain, and may in due course become Caballeros themselves. We have three of them in the room tonight: Isabel Salamon of Slonk Wine, Nancy Green from Indigo Wines, and Joe Emmett from Berry Bros.
The Orden has grown and continues to develop. As I am sure you know, the Caballeros are nominated and voted for by members of the Orden. And we are very grateful that both our newest Caballeros Amelia Aragon and Rafael Palacios have kindly supplied wines for the dinner. Thank you.
The wines we enjoy tonight, a showcase of the diversity of Spain, were selected by a team of Caballeros from submissions by the importers. This year, by chance, you have a real taste of the Orden, because every wine (except one) comes from a Caballero winery.
The white wine we enjoyed at the Investiture came from Bodegas Muga, who along with their importer C&D Winesare long supporters of the Gran Orden. This investiture wine was often a Sherry but we decided to change the Flor de Muga to highlight the growing success of white Rioja. For the starter we have a wine from our first Caballero in Valdeorras. It is partnered by a Rosado – not a regular style at the Dinner – from the only winery at this dinner that is not a member of the Gran Orden. José Luis Ripa sends his apologies as he is in Jerez with María José López de Heredia and other Caballeros at the Academie Internacional du Vin. – but I am delighted to say the family is represented tonight by Mercedes and her daughter Vega.
For the main course we will be enjoying two contrasting wines from the two most famous origins for UK consumers: a Ribera del Duero from new Caballero Amelia Aragón’s family winery, and a Rioja from Telmo Rodríguez. To finish, a light and delightful treat from our friends at Bodegas Ochoa in Navarra. The details for the wines from the reception and for the Stirrup Cupp after the dinner are in your menus. I’d particularly draw your attention as a talking point to the fact that we served a non-alcoholic wine at the reception. This is an innovation. The question is: do you think lo and no alcoholic wines will be a fixture on the dinner tables 10 years from now?
It’s usually at this point that I make some reference to Spain’s astonishing sporting success, notably in tennis. However this year as a loyal supporter of Arsenal, I have to raise a cheer for the Gunners. Last Saturday night I was partying in Vinoble at fellow Caballeros Gonzalez Byass. At the same time, following the match under the table on my mobile. In the end Arsenal lost bravely on penalties, but thankfully there was very fine Sherry to soothe my sorrow.
Looking back over the last couple of years I can observe that what has historically been a wine-focused Gran Orden has been working much more closely with ICEX both in London and Spain, bringing together food and wine.
That brings me to the menu we are enjoying. The Caballero who has been working behind the scenes with the Executive Chef Gary Klaner, is of course Owen Morgan.Owen is a beacon for Spain’s food and wine in Wales. Several Caballeros went down to Cardiff for the winemaker dinner he hosted with Caballero Norrel Robertson. Norrel risked life and limb turning up with a tartan scarf the night before the Wales/Scotland rugby match at Cardiff Arms Park over the road. A great evening!
To conclude this speech let me say my thank yous on behalf of the Caballeros:
To our terrific toastmaster who keeps us in order, Ted Prior.
To The Team at the hotel.
To All the very hardworking team at the Commercial Office in London who actually make this happen.
To our friends from Spain, and to the Secretary of State and the Ambassador.
And to you our guests for joining us.
Would all the Caballeros in the room please stand and raise a glass to toast our Guests. Our guests!
Chairman Sarah Jane Evans MW’s speech from the 41st Investiture Dinner
The Gran Orden was founded to recognise those in Spain and the UK who work to promote the best in Spanish wines in the UK. Our annual Investiture Dinner is a great opportunity to celebrate.
After last year’s exceptional 40th anniversary dinner, member Owen Morgan was once again invited to design a Spanish menu to be prepared by Gary Klaner, Executive Chef at The Landmark London and his team. As a nod to Owen’s Welsh roots, it featured seasonal Wye Valley Asparagus, as well as acorn-fed Ibérico pork and other premium Spanish ingredients.
It was paired with wines selected by Caballeros from those submitted for tasting to ICEX by UK importers and Spanish wineries/producers. Alongside the Sherry and Cava habitually served at the welcome reception, a third non-alcoholic option was served for the first time. The Zeno “Alcohol-liberated Sparkling White” crafted in Castilla-La-Mancha highlights Spain’s leadership in this cutting-edge new category.
Thank you to all the Producers and their Importers for kindly providing the beer, jamón, waters and wines.
Menu
Wines
Reception
I Think Manzanilla En Rama 2025 – DO Manzanilla-Sanlúcar de Barrameda
Equipo Navazos
This is the first appearance of Manzanilla at the Caballeros dinner in recent years, and it makes a welcome return. ‘I Think’ is a selection of butts from the La Guita cellars, resulting in an intense wine, crisp and mineral, with a salty note reflecting its origin. It was aged under flor for about four and a half years, and bottled with a slight filtration. Its name ‘I Think’ is in homage to Charles Darwin, and the triumph of reason.
Sumarroca Reserva Brut Organic 2023 – DO Cava
Bodegas Sumarroca
Sumarroca produces entirely estate-grown Cavas from its extensive property in the Penedès, which has Biosphere Sustainable certification. This Cava is a classic blend of Xarel.lo 40%, Macabeo 35% and Parellada 25%. Aged for 36 months, it has developed a delicate nutty, brioche character, while still retaining the energy of its Mediterranean fruit.
Zeno Alcohol-liberated Sparkling White NV – Product of Spain
Vinolo
The Zeno range of alcohol-free wines was launched in December 2022. This sparkling white is made from Macabeo grapes from Castilla-La Mancha. After vinification, the alcohol is removed by low temperature vacuum distillation. The Zeno range also includes a white, a Bobal rosado, a Tempranillo/Cabernet Sauvignon, and a sparkling Macabeo/Garnacha rosado.
Investiture
Flor de Muga Blanco Reserva 2022 – DOCa Rioja
Bodegas Muga
This year’s Investiture wine celebrates the continuing revival of white Rioja. Muga first launched this style in 2018 – a blend of three different varieties from three different soil types: Viura (ferrous clay), Garnacha Blanca (calcareous clay) and Maturana Blanca (sandy loam). The mosto flor, the free-run juice, was fermented in new French oak, and aged for 6 months, before spending 18 months in bottle, to create a vibrant, elegant wine with notes of sweet spices, citrus and light toast.
Starter
Louro do Bolo 2024 – DO Valdeorras
Rafael Palacios
Rafael Palacios is in his third decade in Valdeorras, continuing his intense focus on the Godello variety, working across more than 32 parcels. The fruit for Louro (meaning ‘bay leaf’ in Galician) comes from around the O Bolo municipality. The vines are on average 25 years old, and they grow at around 600 metres on sandy granitic soils with clay deposits. After fermentation in 35hl French oak foudres, the wine is aged for 4 months on its fine lees: ripe with refreshing acidity and a saline note. Practising organic.
Ripa Rosado 2020 – DOCa Rioja
José Luis Ripa
From one of Rioja’s newer winemakers, already long involved with the business of Rioja wine, and with a very deep personal connection with the region. José Luis Ripa launched his eponymous project ten years ago. There is one wine, a rosado. Complex and full of character, the wine draws on his own enjoyment of the distinct character of aged rosés and their gastronomic appeal. This is a blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo, with oak ageing to build the texture.
Main Course
Viñedos de Peciña 2021 – DOCa Rioja
Lindes de Remelluri
Peciña is a striking narrow amphitheatre of terraced vineyards at around 650m in San Vicente de la Sonsierra. It’s part of Telmo Rodriguez’s Lindes de Remelluri project, which showcases vineyards from grower-partners near the boundaries (lindes) of the Remelluri estate. The vines are 40-60 years old, and the pure, elegant, delicate wine with its crunchy red fruits is a blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha, aged for 12 months in oak barrels of various sizes. Practising organic.
Torresilo 2021 – DO Ribera del Duero
Cillar de Silos
Cillar de Silos is a family-owned vineyard in Ribera del Duero established in 1994 but with roots dating back to the 17th century. Now in the hands of three siblings, Oscar, Roberto and Amelia, the estate tends 98 hectares around Quintana del Pidio, including low-yielding, pre-phylloxera vines over 100 years old. The 2021 Torresilo delivers vibrant aromatics of blackberries and plums, an expressive palate of damsons and nutmeg, and a long, refreshing mineral finish.
Dessert
MdO Moscato de Ochoa 2025 – DO Navarra
Bodegas Ochoa
The Ochoa family has long been known for its Moscatel (de Grano Menudo). Winemaker Adriana Ochoa looked to create a low alcohol wine at a time when there were few in Spain, while wanting to respect Navarra’s ancestral Moscatel. This is the convincingly delicious result: partially fermented to 5.5% ABV; a gloriously floral Moscatel, lightly sparkling, with a refreshingly light sweetness. It’s ‘a warm hug’, as sisters Beatriz and Adriana put it.
Stirrup Cup
Millésimé Blanc de Noirs Gran Reserva Brut 2022 – DO Cava
Juve & Camps
A wine from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, precise and bright with crunchy red fruits. From the Rieral vineyard in the Alt Penedès, made from north-facing plots to ensure freshness. Aged for 36 months.
Tresor Cuvée Barrique Gran Reserva Brut 2021 – DO Cava
Pere Ventura
This Gran Reserva full of candied fruits and spice is a blend of Xarel.lo grown at 340m and Chardonnay at 700m. Part of the Chardonnay is fermented and aged in barrel for 5 months to build complexity. Aged for more than 48 months.
Sponsors
Jamón de Bellota Ibérico
50% de Raza Ibérica
‘AWAKEN YOUR IBÉRICO SENSE’ is ASICI’s campaign aimed at promoting Jamón Ibérico in key international markets, with the support of the EU. Jamón Ibérico embodies a centuries-old tradition and stands as a symbol of excellence.
Victoria Málaga
Cervezas Victoria Málaga
Named after the patron saint of Málaga “La Virgen de la Victoria”, Victoria Málaga has been a symbol of Málaga since 1928. A 4.8% ABV lager, brewed with 100% natural quality ingredients and a 12-day maturation process that balances and deepens the flavour of this refreshing beer. Victoria Málaga is a super premium, sessionable lager with a superb taste.
Mondariz
Aguas de Mondariz
Aguas de Mondariz is a naturally balanced mineral-medicinal water of pure origin, filtered through ancient granite which imparts golden reflections and enhances the water’s crystalline clarity.
Vichy Catalán
Vichy Catalán
Vichy Catalan genuine natural sparkling mineral water embodies 140 years of heritage, prestige, and exceptional quality.
Menu and wines served at the 41st investiture dinner
Three new members were welcomed into the Gran Orden de Caballeros de Vino at the 41st Caballeros Investiture Dinner on the 4th June 2026 at London’s Landmark Hotel, led by Commercial Counsellor, Ms. Nieves Díaz García and Chairman, Sarah Jane Evans MW.
The three new members, elected by secret ballot, were all born in Spain, although their careers have ensured that they have promoted Spanish wine and gastronomy all over the world. They include an export manager – Amelia Aragón from Cillar de Silos in Ribera del Duero – a winemaker – Rafael Palacios, whose eponymous winery is located in Valdeorras – and renowned sommelier, Josep Roca of the the three-Michelin-starred restaurant El Celler de Can Roca in Girona.
As well as being introduced by Sarah Jane Evans MW and Ms. Nieves Díaz García, the new Caballeros del Vino Español were welcomed by the new Spanish Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, H.E. Mrs. Emma Aparici Vázquez de Parga and Ms. Amparo López Senovilla, the Spanish government’s Secretary of State for Trade.
It is the first time in the event’s 41-year history that all the speeches have been made by women holding these important ambassadorial and trade roles.
Amelia Aragón
Amelia Aragón’s story is rooted in rural life, as she was born in the small village of Quintana del Pidio (Burgos), near Aranda de Duero, surrounded by old vines.
After initially studying Business and Economics, the pull of the vineyard proved hard to resist. A Master’s in Viticulture and Oenology was followed by a move to the UK, where she first joined Oddbins. Having arrived with more enthusiasm than English, she quickly found that taking delivery addresses over the phone can be more challenging than you might expect! Despite those early challenges, her resilience, warmth and unmistakable energy quickly set her apart.
She later joined the export team at Cillar de Silos, an estate set up by her family in the 1990s, where she works alongside her brothers Roberto and Óscar. Amelia has built her a career across international markets, with her success grounded in deep technical knowledge and a clear understanding of the human side of wine: relationships, storytelling and shared experiences.
Today, resident in London, she is a familiar figure in the UK trade, described as “championing Spanish wine with generosity, passion and conviction” in the welcome speech.
Rafael Palacios
Born into the Palacios dynasty in Rioja, Rafael grew up surrounded by wine. But early on, the curiosity of the family’s youngest son took him beyond Spain: first to Bordeaux, and then to Australia, where a lasting fascination with white winemaking was born.
That fascination returned with him to Spain, where he developed Palacios Remondo’s first white wine, Placet, a fine wine which showed the potential of white Rioja.
Before long, however, a desire to find his own path led him to the old vines of a remote corner of Galicia, where he set up his eponymous winery in Valdeorras.
Over the past 22 years he has been instrumental in redefining the potential of Spain’s Godello grape variety, producing wines of outstanding precision and character, and earning international acclaim.
Josep Roca
Josep’s family was also intimately related with wine, but in this case, selling it in their bar-restaurant in Girona. Spending time between the cellar and the tables, Josep soon showed an innate understanding of how wine, food and people come together.
He studied alongside his brother Joan at The Girona Catering School, before the duo set up El Celler de Can Roca in 1986. Together with their younger brother, Jordi, the siblings have built one of the world’s most celebrated restaurants, which was awarded its third Michelin star in 2009.
In charge of the “liquid” side of their offering, Josep has also shared this passion internationally, travelling with a team of over 40 people for three years to promote Spain’s gastronomy and wines while embracing different cultures. He has used his skills as a communicator to elevate the art of service and inspire generations through his passion for wine.
Josep was unable to attend the investiture dinner in person but shared his gratitude through a video acceptance message.
In welcoming the guests, Chairman of the Gran Orden, Sarah Jane Evans MW, offered her congratulations to all three new Caballeros, commenting, “We are truly delighted to welcome you into the Gran Orden.”