For a gastronomic getaway, the Spanish region of Rioja has plenty to offer. And with British Airways running twice-daily flights from London Heathrow to nearby Bilbao, there’s never been a better time to visit

Spicy chorizo, juicy tomatoes and local asparagus are just a few of the ingredients enticing foodies to visit Rioja in northern Spain. And when you combine the region’s locally grown produce with its vibrant restaurant scene and vineyard pedigree, you’ll see why Rioja is the place to eat and drink right now.

Thanks to the area’s numerous tapas bars, and traditional family restaurants serving local fare, you’re never far from a good meal. Take your pick of asadores (grills) specialising in the freshest local meats cooked on an open fire, or head to an ultra-modern, Michelin-starred restaurant where the chefs are redefining Riojan cooking.

Unmissable local dishes include the famous patatas a la riojana (hearty chorizo and potato stew), piquillo rellenos (peppers stuffed with meat, vegetables or cod), and bacalao a la riojana (cod in tomato and red pepper sauce).

Of course, these dishes make great partners with the region’s wines. Thanks to its location and continental climate, Rioja boasts more than 600 wineries producing top-class red, white and rosé varieties. Take a look at the pairing suggestions below to whet your appetite. Then all you need to decide is when to visit.

Try a Rioja Crianza with traditional aged sheep’s cheese and quince. Crianza wines spend at least one year ageing in oak, and another year in bottle before release, resulting in a juicy style combining berry fruit with a hint of vanilla and spice, and a refreshing acidity that cuts through the cheese.

A traditional white Rioja pairs perfectly with a tortilla Española. White Reserva wines are aged for a minimum of two years, and their creamy, buttery flavours balanced with lemon acidity lend themselves well to a variety of foods. In particular it brings out the flavours of the savoury Spanish potato omelette.

For a classic combination, try a Rioja Gran Reserva with chuletillas de cordero (lamb chops). Ranking among the finest in the world, these wines spend five years ageing in barrel and bottle and offer intense depth, with savoury hints of leather and spice, and an exceptionally smooth, silky texture.

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This article has been tagged Food + Drink, Destination