He doesn't brag about it, but during his formative years, Carlos Campillo (who was born in Zaragoza and moved to France at the age of four) spent some time at La Pyramide – an institution in the culinary universe – in Vienne, France. More recently, in 2003, this former rugby player moved his passion for natural wines to Madrid. 'I knew it was only a matter of time before this way of drinking, which is also a different way of living, would come together here, and for three years it's had more visibility. Restaurants, shops and many young winemakers (several from abroad) are banking on it. There's plenty of quality and production capacity in this country.' His tavern, with more than a hundred varieties, is a showcase in constant progression. They serve around 20 wines by the glass, which is a great starting point for neophytes, and a haven for those already into it.
Cassoulet, oysters, rillette... Their food is based on French cuisine with well-chosen products, which can pair nicely with natural wines. 'For us, Mediterranean people, food and wine go hand in hand. In the northern countries, where they drink differently, they've already got more radical options, but here we have to accommodate a certain environment. That's my job. Give customers something to try, and set out to break down barriers.'
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