Lisa Higginson
Fancy a trip to Spain? Well you wonât need to go any further than Albert Square this weekend. For a celebration of Spanish flavours is set to take place when Tapas Fantasticas makes its debut on Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26. The free festival, created by Wines from Rioja, is designed to deliver a taste of Spain and honour the countryâs culinary heritage.
Peruse the stalls and sip a variety of stunning red, white and rose wines from some of Riojaâs most famous vineyards from your free tasting glass, which comes with four tokens to exchange for samples of wine. For serious wine lovers, there is also the chance to sign up to free tasting seminars with wine experts Susy Atkins and Olly Smith.
And as the wine flows so too will a selection of tantalising tapas from some of the northwestâs finest Spanish restaurants. Among those cooking up a Spanish storm will be Manchesterâs Evuna, Grado and Pinchjoâs with menus featuring traditional dishes such as Paella, Albondigas (meat balls), Gambas al ajo (garlic prawns), Chorizo con patatas aioli (chorizo with poatoes) and pinchos. With live Spanish music to enjoy while you eat and drink, it is sure to feel like a little corner of Spain has evolved in Manchester.
The event runs from 11.30am â 5.30pm on both days. Entry is free.
For more information visit www.winesfromrioja.co.uk