"Galician red wine is a serious movement," says Madrid Ambassador Agustín Trapero
Our Madrid Ambassador, award-winning sommelier Agustín Trapero, is adding five Red Stars as we prepare to bring our wine list competition to Spain in 2025.
“We are all very excited to have, for the very first time in Spain, the Spanish Star Wine List of the Year awards, next February, in Barcelona,” says Agustín. “It is a fantastic opportunity to show the potential of our wine lists offered in Spain, and I will definitely be encouraging head sommeliers and wine directors to apply – the reward will be much worth it.”
Currently studying to become a Master Sommelier, Agustín’s experience spans five-star hotels and three-Michelin-starred restaurants including The Fat Duck, in the UK. He is also a presenter, consultant and educator – and Star Wine List’s Madrid Ambassador. He gives us an update from the Spanish capital, along with five more Red Stars for our guide.
AGUSTÍN'S NEW RED STARS
How would you describe the Madrid wine scene in 2024?
“Fantastic. Madrid is an all-time lively and busy place around the year. At some points, I feel that I can't catch up with everything that is going on in the city. 2024 has been a great year and I believe that 2025 will be even better.”
What trends are you seeing in Madrid right now?
“Madrid is a non-stop opening of new wine scenes. I can see Galician red wine trending as a serious movement and already settling – in terms of quality and interesting projects, it's becoming stronger and more often seen in wine places. As well as wines from northern Spain, like Albarin Blanco or Verdejo Negro on restaurants’ wine lists.
“I can also notice a special interest in Sidra Asturiana DOP (cider from Asturias), in higher fine dining places, helped by its lower alcohol, improved producers, crispy and refreshing taste.”
How can a restaurant or wine bar impress you?
“Personality, authenticity and carefulness are my basic standards for being a Red Star venue. It is also the attention to details in terms of service, wine list options, wines by the glass; the recommendations and attentiveness of the staff are as important as having a great wine list.”
What is Madrid like in the winter? Are there any particular guest habits?
“The winter season is a bit cold in Madrid, and it is the moment for rich, full-bodied and ripe black fruit wines instead of bright ones, like those from Toro, Priorat, Calatayud, etc.
“Also, it's the time to remind everyone that Madrid has the fortune to have its own DOP (Vinos de Madrid DO), which gets the diversity of different styles depending on your taste: if you prefer more mineral, refined and lighter wines, those from the Sierra de Gredos side will be you choice, but if you fancy more structure, fuller-bodied and richer wines, then south west of the region will be your preference.”
Do like the Pros - search 3000+ wine lists
