Ribeira Sacra has captivated one of the most influential chefs in the world. Gordon Ramsay—an international reference in haute cuisine and host of Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted (known in Spain as Fuera de Carta)—visited the Vía Romana winery (Chantada) during the filming of the episode “The Galician Coast,” recently released on Disney+ in collaboration with National Geographic.
The reason for the visit had been kept under wraps due to filming requirements, but we can finally share it. This occasion allowed Gordon Ramsay to experience firsthand the heroic viticulture of Ribeira Sacra, its terraced vineyards, and a unique landscape that left him, in his own words, “speechless.” The British chef expressed his regret at not being able to witness the harvest in person—an experience still to be shared, and one we hope he can enjoy on a future visit.
Beyond the surroundings, Gordon Ramsay thoroughly enjoyed the winery’s wines. In particular, Vía Romana Do Camiño Godello stood out, which he praised as a gourmet wine capable of enhancing the flavors of food. Both the wines from Vía Romana and those from Méndez-Rojo received top marks from the chef, who even took a special selection of wines back with him to the United States.
One of the most memorable moments of the episode took place at the winery itself, where Gordon Ramsay and his daughter Matilda Ramsay (Tilly) took part in a culinary showdown with Galician chef Pepe Vieira, joined by his son Darío. Set against the backdrop of the Ribeira Sacra, the gastronomic challenge highlighted the exceptional quality of Galician products: mussels, sea bass, Rubia Gallega beef, and, of course, the region’s wines.
Gordon Ramsay’s admiration for Galicia is nothing new. He has stated on numerous occasions that “the best meat in the world is Galician,” and has emphasized the uniqueness of the region’s wines, born from steep terrain, a demanding climate, and a deep respect for tradition. “Galicia, always Galicia,” he has affirmed, even expressing interest in opening a restaurant in the region for part of the year.
For Vía Romana, this visit and the chef’s recognition represent a significant international endorsement of the work carried out in the Ribeira Sacra—of its heroic viticulture and wines that are rooted in respect for both landscape and tradition. A source of pride that we can now finally share with clients, friends, and wine lovers.
We continue to raise a glass to Galicia, to the Ribeira Sacra, and to the wines that are winning over the world.
