Pairing Crema Catalana correctly — a note on Rioja red wine

Most people overlook how much the right drink changes Crema Catalana. I ordered it with Rioja red wine and the smoky and savoury elements of the dish sharpened considerably against the pairing. Manchego cheese in particular became more prominent in a good way.

Spanish eating culture centres on long social meals rather than quick eating. The a pintxos bar in San Sebastián is where you learn these pairings — they evolved together. If you've been having Crema Catalana with the wrong drink, try it correctly once. It's a genuinely different experience. The restaurant deserves credit for getting this right.