Spain is especially hot this summer. I mean temperature-wise, with record heat waves pushing the mercury consistently above 40 degrees Celsius, which converts to “Hotter’n the hinges of Hades” in American.
But I also mean that Spain has really stepped out in the cultural and athletic zeitgeist this year. Since I turn these stories in a day or two before they're published, as of this writing I don’t know if La Roja made it to the World Cup finals or if they lost to France Tuesday, but they’ve made a great run through the tournament regardless. (Editor's note: They won!) Their young star Lamine Yamal is considered one of the next icons of the beautiful game with a long career ahead of him for both club and country. The Tour de France actually spent the first three days of the monthlong race in Spain, pedaling around Barcelona and along the Catalonian coast.
Spanish food remains all the rage thanks to luminaries like José Andrés, Ferran and Albert Adrià and Dabiz Muñoz, not to mention Nashville’s own Beard-winning Iberian expert Jake Howell of Peninsula.
The Fairlane Hotel downtown has definitely noticed the buzz and plans to jump on la vagón de la banda with a special event they are calling "Under the Stars: A San Sebastián Wine Dinner" on Sunday, July 26, at 5 p.m. Sommelier Andrew Brewer will pair wines from the Basque Coast with a five-course dinner from executive chef Sam Greer.
After a cocktail welcome reception with wines and small bites, guests will enjoy examples of the culinary traditions of San Sebastián matched with complementary pours. After dinner, the party will move to the Fairlane’s CAPRIcious Rooftop Bar, where guests can purchase cocktails and premium cigars. Professional astronomers will set up their telescopes and offer guided stargazing sessions if the weather allows.
Early-bird tickets for the experience are available until July 20 for $150. After the early bird has flown away, tickets will be available for $175. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite, so make plans now!
