Wine, Gastronomy, and Architecture: Rioja's Love Languages

Originally posted on Men's Journal | Last updated 10/2/24

There's a magical land just south of Spain's Sierra Cantabria Mountains. The Spanish language (aka Castellano) is said to have originated here, the culinary culture is one of the greatest one the planet, and the wine! Oh, the wine. Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo, Garnacha, Viura, Malvasia, and so many more. If you've been to Rioja, you know. If you haven't yet visited the region, this documentary series will be the catalyst to get your tickets, hotels, and tasting reservations booked. Giddy up, we're going somewhere delicious.

Embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of Spain's finest wine region with the world premiere of Rioja Paired , a four-episode documentary series hosted by award-winning wine and food expert Marti Buckley. This captivating series explores the rich intersection of food, wine, land, and culture in Rioja, offering viewers an intimate look at what makes this region truly unique. Rioja Paired is a must-watch for foodies, wine lovers, and travelers alike.

Guided by Marti, viewers are immersed in the vibrant culture of Rioja—from its culinary experiences and vinicultural heritage to its breathtaking landscapes, ancient architecture, and dynamic art scenes. Audiences step into Michelin-starred kitchens, hearing directly from chefs about how they craft menus elevated by the region’s award-winning wines, transforming meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Marti also delves into Rioja's rich traditions, uncovering age-old recipes and stories passed down through generations, offering a true taste of the region's cultural legacy.

“We are excited to have Marti Buckley lead this exploration of Rioja,” said Fernando Ezquerro, president of the DOCa Rioja. “Her deep knowledge and love for food and wine make her the perfect guide for this series, and we can’t wait for viewers to experience Rioja through her eyes.”

In addition to full-length episodes, the series features dynamic micro-episodes—30-second glimpses into the journey—shared across social media platforms and YouTube, sparking excitement for what's to come. Rioja Paired promises to take viewers beyond the bottle, exploring the intricate relationship between food, wine, land, and culture that defines this extraordinary region.

“We embarked on this project because we felt the need to show why Rioja is unique. In Rioja, wine is not just a beverage; it’s food, family, history, nature, and culture,” added Rodrigo Gutierrez, US Director of the DOCa Rioja.

Rioja Paired is streaming now on RiojaPaired.com and YouTube.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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