Hotel el Lagar de Isilla ★★★★

There is an art to wine drinking, teasing out all the different flavours underpinning the glass, and identifying the varying notes and aromas that round out the taste. Let us see if Hotel el Lagar de Isilla **** can teach us:

We start with a glass on arrival, in the exquisitely decorated bedrooms. Each one has been designed according to a theme – of course wine-related – and is entirely unique. The room Tempranillo, named for the grape and adorned with a vineyard-like décor, and ceiling reminiscent of the blue skies outside, is a particular favourite, but you must uncover which room is best suited to your tastes.

Next comes a glass in the restaurant. A red will suit the signature dish, a wood-roasted suckling lamb, or try their traditional tapas plates, as well as some regional favourite dishes, with a different pairing. The furniture here has a sense of humour, with a subtly wine-themed barrel-curve bar and barrel tables. In warmer months, eat beneath the stars in the outdoor terrace, or the spectacular cupola interior terrace.

First and foremost, Hotel el Lagar de Isilla **** is a wine cellar, or wine domaine in the local tongue, running since the 15th Century. Their winery is extensive, a series of underground passages housing the wines that are produced, stored, and sold on the premises. Ultimately, this wine is the flavour that lingers on your pallete, even after you’ve left for home – an exquisite taste, savoured and enjoyed long after the holiday glow is gone.