Rafael Bellido: "Andalusia is an endless feast for the senses"
Renowned sommelier Rafael Bellido, the current president of the Union of Spanish Sommelier Associations, is Star Wine List's new ambassador for Andalusia. Today he presents his first recommendations to the exciting region in the south of Spain.
"I'm as excited as a kid in a candy shop. It's an honour to be part of this journey with Star Wine List," he says about his new role.
"I want to explore, share and reveal to the world the richness of so many wonderful places where wine is the protagonist. My wish is to discover both the great and the small wine treasures and corners of southern Spain, so that all lovers and those interested in this delicious wines can enjoy them. Just as I have had the pleasure of discovering gems in other countries thanks to the recommendations of colleagues and wine enthusiasts, or the Star Wine List, I want to guide wine lovers on a sensory journey full of unforgettable experiences. May every sip be a delight and every encounter with wine be a moment to treasure!"
Rafael Bellido is currently president of the Union of Spanish Sommelier Associations (UAES), as well as Academic Director of the prestigious Master in Oenology, Sommelier and Winery Management of Andalusia, and he is recognised as an emblematic figure in the world of sommellerie, both nationally and internationally. His career reflects his passion for sommellerie and gastronomy, collaborating with renowned chefs such as Ferran Adrià, Gordon Ramsey and Marco Pierre White, in outstanding establishments such as Oxo Tower (Harvey Nichols), always focused on providing an exceptional experience both at the table and in the "liquid part" of the restaurant.
In addition to his work as a sommelier, he has played key roles in the business world, leading Marketing and Sales areas and managing renowned establishments such as La Mojigata in Seville. He is also an active member of the Academy of Gastronomy and Tourism of Andalusia.
How and when did you get into the wine business?
"I entered the exciting world of wine by pure chance, as all great adventures in life tend to happen, in my younger years. I took my first steps in catering at the emblematic cocktail bar 'Chicote' in Madrid, where I started by picking up glasses as an apprentice. Eventually, my path took me from the kitchen to the heart of the dining room, where I gradually fell in love with every aspect of the gastronomic experience. And, unsurprisingly, that love materialised into an overflowing passion for wine."
"I immersed myself in the history, the culture and, above all, the people who bring this elixir of life to life. It was then that I realised that this was not just a job, not even a trade; it was a way of life, a passion that consumed me completely. Now, I find myself immersed in several exciting new projects, each designed to elevate the wine experience to new heights of enjoyment and discovery - it's a journey I never want to end!”
Where are you working right now?
"I am currently immersed in several projects, some already underway and others that are about to start (hopefully!). One of the facets I am most passionate about and gratified by is the opportunity to deliver and develop training. In this sense, I have the privilege of directing the Masters in Oenology, Sommelier and Winery Management, which is offered throughout Andalusia and is based in Seville, endorsed by the Chamber of Commerce. I hope to soon expand this master's degree to Madrid and America, where the demand is considerable."
"In addition, I write for various media and provide consultancy for projects related to the wine industry, gastronomy and event organisation. I lecture and teach nationally and internationally, sharing my passion for these disciplines."
How would you describe the dining and drinking scene in Andalusia at the moment?
"Andalusia unfolds before us an endless feast for the senses! Its people, its deep-rooted traditions, the aromas wafting in the air and its secret corners waiting to be discovered. Here, the gastronomic and wine scene is a torrent of passion and vitality. The fusion of tradition and innovation creates a symphony of flavours that is simply exquisite - Andalusia is ready to be enjoyed with every sip, every moment!"
How much has changed in recent years and what have been the biggest changes?
"In recent years, we have witnessed a creative effervescence in the gastronomic world and significant changes in the wine scene. From the sunny lands of Jerez to the vineyards of Montilla Moriles, Huelva, Málaga, Granada, Jaén and Almería, each region is experiencing a renaissance. Wine bars and restaurants are redefining the way people enjoy wine, and I am excited to be part of this evolution. It's an exciting time to explore and savour the delights that Andalusia has to offer, where every glass is a story to tell and every dish a culinary masterpiece - it's a toast to the future of wine in our land!"
What are the emerging drinking trends you are seeing?
On the trend front, conscious drinking is reaching new heights. People are craving wines that go beyond what's in the glass, looking for narratives that tell profound stories and have a positive impact on the environment and local communities. They are searching for wines that speak of terroir, that evoke the rich history imprinted in every drop, that reflect the landscapes that have seen them born and that celebrate the hard-working hands that have nurtured them."
"It is a rebirth of the bond between wine and land, a connection that transcends the palate and becomes a complete sensory experience - a toast to wine that tells a story beyond its taste, and leaves a legacy of love for the land and its people."
Anything you want to add?
"I would just like to add a toast to all the passionate wine lovers who make this world so special. May you enjoy Andalusia, its wines and its people as much as I do every day, may every glass be an adventure and every sip a celebration!"
See Rafael Bellido's selection in the guide below!
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