Rioja in Residence: International haute cuisine with Le Doyenné
DOCa Rioja presented a new edition of In Residence on Wednesday the 21st, an initiative that brings some of the most influential names in global cuisine to the capital each year.
Until May 25th, Semilla Food Estudio will host Le Doyenné's pop-up restaurant, where Henry presents a ten-course menu inspired by spring. This exclusive offering, priced at €180, stands out for its refined and contemporary cuisine, creating a fine dining experience paired with a carefully curated selection of six wines from the Rioja DOCa.
Among the dishes are a spring barbajuan, a razor clam consommé, bomba rice with vegetable ragu, and pork with caillette. “I wanted to reflect the energy of this season through simple ingredients, but full of personality,” Henry commented at the start of the first service, also toasting Rioja's Centenary.
The wine selection is curated by sommelier Romain Rieu, who has chosen labels such as Abel Mendoza Blanco 2022 and Marqués de Vargas Gran Reserva 2016, wines designed to complement and enhance each dish. “Each wine tells its own story and adds nuances that enrich the menu,” he explained.
Ambassadors of Rioja in the world
During the opening evening, the Rioja DOCa Regulatory Board presented Henry and Rieu with the recognition of “International Ambassadors” of Rioja. This symbolic gesture reinforces the Denomination's commitment to forging genuine connections with global ambassadors of its philosophy and wines. “It is an honor to be part of this very special anniversary. I have always admired the authenticity and diversity of Rioja. This recognition further commits us to its history,” stated the chef.
What's next: from Rome to the Faroe Islands
In Residence by Rioja will continue its global journey in September with Italian chef Sarah Cicolini, from the Roman restaurant Santo Palato; while in October the pop-up will be carried out together with Poul Andrias Ziska, chef of the Paz restaurant in the Faroe Islands, in which sustainability, territory and story merge in a proposal with two Michelin stars.
Bookings for both experiences are now available on the official 'In Residence Sessions by Rioja' website.
