Gratis sampling of imported Spanish wines

The Aralaga Alliance Consortium, a group of Spanish merchants and vendors, invited local Historic City News readers to celebrate 450 years of Spanish culture and history in St Augustine at events scheduled today, tomorrow, and again on July 9, 2013.

According to Dana Ste. Claire, director for the 450th commemoration, this month representatives of the Aralaga Alliance travel to St Augustine for talks with city leaders who hope to permanently open Spanish “bodegas” and “mercados” where vendors can promote Spanish influences by expanding authentic goods available for sale in the city.

“Sandevid, World famous sangria that has never been sold in the United States, is going to be launched, with free samples, here at the Colonial Quarter Taberna del Caballo on July 4th,” said Ste. Claire.

On July 5th, stop by 95 Cordova Restaurant, located inside the Casa Monica Hotel, from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., for a taste of Vina Luparia; the authentic Spanish wine may be sampled in the Hotel lobby, or receive a full complimentary glass with the purchase of lunch or dinner.

Finally, on July 9th at 7:00 p.m., La Foliá Baroque Ensemble from Spain will perform a free concert at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine. Enjoy the beauty of ancient instruments as they play melodies from our past to tie together our nation’s history and culturally diverse heritage.

There are about 30 companies that are represented through the Aralaga Alliance Consortium, according to an announcement St. Claire released in June. St. Claire says the plan is to infuse more Spanish culture in St Augustine by attracting authentic Spanish merchants to set up shop in the nation’s oldest city — a tourism void he said officials have been trying to fill for years.