Catalonia Receives Global Gastronomy Region Distinction for 2025
Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain, has been honored as the first European region to receive the prestigious title of “World Gastronomy Region 2025” by the International Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism Institute (IGCAT). This recognition is bestowed upon regions that demonstrate a comprehensive strategy to promote their gastronomy as a driving force for economic, tourism, and cultural development.
The Festival of Catalonia in Mexico
In May, Catalonia celebrates this international acknowledgment through the “Som Catalan Food” festival in Mexico, organized by the Catalan Government Delegation in Mexico and Centroamérica, Prodeca, and La Naval. This event aims to promote Catalan gastronomy and commemorate the distinction awarded by IGCAT.
Lleïr Daban Hurtós, Delegado del Gobierno Catalán en México y Centroamérica
Lleïr Daban Hurtós, the Catalan Government Delegation’s representative in Mexico and Centroamérica, explained that throughout the year, especially in May, various activities will take place to promote Catalan gastronomy and celebrate the IGCAT’s recognition. He emphasized that Catalan cuisine is not only a source of enjoyment but also promotes healthy eating through the Mediterranean diet, linked to health and enogastronomic tourism.
Festival Highlights and Activities
Throughout May, the Catalan gastronomy will be the star of this gourmet festival, offering attendees a culinary journey through Catalonia. Participants can explore renowned Catalan vineyards and wineries, savor traditional land-based sausages, taste Mediterranean seafood preserves, and discover the classic vermouth for aperitifs.
- Eight La Naval gourmet stores in Mexico City will showcase over 47 brands and up to 300 gourmet products, including wines, cavas, chocolates, turrones, gluten-free items, and more.
- New Catalan products will be available in La Naval stores, with over 140 items added to the shelves.
Tuesdays of Tasting and Degustation
The festival features a series of experiences with tastings and product degustations of Catalan gourmet items, taking place every Tuesday at various locations. These events aim to promote some of Catalonia’s 12 Denominations of Origin (DO), such as DO. Catalunya, DOQ. Priorat, DO. Penedès, DO. Costers del Segre, and DO. Cava.
Throughout May, starting at noon, attendees can enjoy the traditional vermouth hour at La Quilla restaurant within La Naval Insurgentes store. This popular Catalan ritual includes a good white, red, or pink vermouth, typical of the Reus and Tarragona regions. In Catalonia, vermouth is usually served with ice, soda, an olive, and an orange slice.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Catalonia receiving the “World Gastronomy Region 2025” title? This recognition highlights Catalonia’s exceptional and rich agroalimentary and culinary heritage, establishing it as an international reference.
- What does this distinction mean for Catalonia? It acknowledges Catalonia as a top-tier gastronomic destination and an innovative territory capable of connecting its food heritage with values like sustainability, quality, and social cohesion.
