Spanish Cellar, founded by Victor Eduardo Dejesus Iglasias, has been a key player in promoting Spanish food and wine in Malaysia, Singapore, and across Asia for nearly three decades. Initially focusing on the hospitality sector, Victor has recently expanded his offerings to retail customers and catering events, providing a unique culinary experience.

 

 

Located in a sizeable space near the management office of Puncak Prima Condo in Sri Hartamas, Spanish Cellar features a charming and rustic space perfect for private dinners, wine tasting events, or celebratory gatherings. Though it’s not a typical walk-in restaurant, the private dining option is an alluring one.

Victor’s passion for Spanish cuisine – reflected by the name of his company which is also the title of this review – is evident in his curated selection. His collection includes fine vintage wines and select brandies, including a sterling range of brandies with ages from 30 to 100 years old.

 

 

 

Indeed, the wines alone are worth a special mention. Considering Spain is the third-largest wine-producing nation, it’s surprising there are not more Spanish wines on Malaysia’s supermarket shelves – at least quality Spanish wines. Pasión Española is doing its best to change all that by importing only Spanish wines, and some fine ones at that, too.

We were happy to take Victor’s recommendations, as he’s been introducing Spanish wines into the country for over a decade. He selected for us a white, Lara O Blanco Crianza; and a red, Veraton, produced by Bodegas Alto Moncaya. The white wine from the Ribera del Duero region includes Albillo Mayor grapes and other very minor varieties, such as Pirulés. The blend is aged for a short time in Hungarian and French oak barrels to give it a certain structure and complexity which allows it to be kept for a few years. With limited production (we enjoyed bottle number 2,479 from a total production of just 3,900). It stands out for its freshness, fruity notes, well-integrated touches of wood, and value for money.

 

 

The red wine, meanwhile, is produced entirely from Garnacha grapes (in France, it is referred to as Grenache). Garnacha wines are often spicy-sweet, with berry and pepper flavours. The Veraton is made from grapes whose bush vines are between 30 and 50 years old. The wine is aged in mostly new American oak barrels for 16 months, resulting in a full-bodied, fruity red wine that is fresh and vibrant on the palate.

Beyond the wines, Spanish Cellar is also a gourmet food haven, stocked with a variety of enticing items. The chillers and freezers are filled with Manchego cheese wheels, vacuum-sealed meats, marinated cuts, cured sausages, and tender steaks, making it a paradise for food lovers.

 

 

 

Victor’s dedication to quality and storytelling sets Spanish Cellar apart. Each product is not just a food item but a piece of culinary heritage. This personal touch enhances the overall experience, making every visit a journey through the rich landscape of Spanish cuisine.

Victor and his son, Rafiq, recently demonstrated their offerings to us with a curated menu, showcasing the range of products available. We especially loved some of the tapas, as well as the charcuterie board with an array of incredible meats and cheese. The expertly prepared cuts of Ibérico pork, meanwhile, were absolutely sublime. Our meal highlighted the exceptional quality and variety of Spanish Cellar’s gourmet foods and wines, reaffirming their reputation as a top destination for Spanish culinary delights. It’s not your typical everyday restaurant, to be certain, but if you have occasion to plan a memorable private dining experience, Spanish Cellar is a superb choice.

 

Additional text by David Bowden

Location & Details

Spanish Cellar
Event Space and Private Dining
C-0-3 Puncak Prima Condominium
Jalan Sri Hartamas 17
50480 Kuala Lumpur

T: 6012.223 7973
W: www.spanishcellarkl.com

Follow on Instagram @spanishcellar_kl