Pairing Spanish wine with tapas and pinchos

In Spain, tapas are not just a style of food, they are a way of living. Tapas originated in Southern Spain, however there are several theories as to why this style of food was served in the first place as well as the source of the name. The primary theory is that bar owners would serve a glass of sherry, or wine, topped with a slice of ham or piece of bread to prevent fruit flies from entering the glass. The word tapas means lid, or covering.

Regardless of the exact origin, this form of small plate dining has moved from its southern origins to the country as a whole. In Northern Spain, tapas are also known as “pinchos” which means “spike” for the small skewer or toothpick used to attach the snack to a slice of bread. No matter where you are in Spain, tapas are meant for sharing and to be enjoyed in the company of friends and family. And they are meant to be enjoyed with whichever wine is produced in the region the tapas are being served.

So make your next get-together a celebration of Spain with these tapas and pinchos recipes and Spanish wine pairing suggestions.