Meet the Artisans
Whenever possible, we work with artisan producers and small family-run businesses in Spain, many of whom are continuing food-making traditions that go back generations. Their traditonal methods often use sustainable and ethical practices that protect the land, respect their animals, and help them stay connected to the land. We support them in effort to maintain the traditions of Spain, and hope that our enjoyment of the fruits of their labors inspires us all to a greater dedication to these practices in our own land. We invite you to meet some of these artisans...
Artisans
The Ortiz Family - Tuna Conservas
In 1891, in the beautiful Basque fishing village of Ondarroa, Bernardo Ortiz founded Conservas Ortiz. Their passion was to produce exceptional canned seafood, following an ancient Basque fishing tradition. Now in its fifth generation, this family owned cannery is famed for its line caught Bonito del Norte tuna.
This special kind of albacore tuna migrates to the Bay of Biscay where they feast on anchovies and sardines. Once they have fattened up, they are sustainably harvested with hook and pole. This traditional fishing method minimizes bycatch, protects seabed ecosystems and follows strict quotas to ensure long-term population health. Plus the fish don't struggle in nets, so they retain their natural healthy fats.
Each tuna is poached and packed by hand with oil, preserving the delicate, tender texture and flavor for you to enjoy. The Ortiz family prides itself on sustainably harvesting this special fish, and preserving the fishery for generations to come.
Juan Carlos & Carmen - Bodega Gutiérrez Colosía Owners
We enjoy walking along the waterfront of Puerto de Santa Maria and dropping in to visit our friends Juan Carlos Gutiérrez Colosía and his warm and delightful wife Carmen Pau who own a boutique sherry bodega located close to the pedestrian ferry to Cádiz. We are always greeted with extravagant warmth by the couple, and Carmen speaks flawless English. The winery is a work of love, a truly family enterprise.
Their lovely daughter Carmencita might show you around their intimate wine cellar should your visits coincide. In addition to a cellar full of singular sherries, they also have an amazing selection of rich and pungent sherry vinegars, such as you have never tasted before. Their vinegars are the only ones we use at home, both in cooking and on our vinaigrette-laced salads.
You can stop by the bodega on your next visit to Spain and you will probably meet our friends there. We think the couple represents the very best of Spain.
