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Modern Steak Wins Top Honors at Calgary’s Rioja Restaurant Competition

This March, the spirit of Spain came alive in Calgary, Canada as local restaurants competed to craft the ultimate food and wine pairing in celebration of 100 years of excellence from Rioja, Spain’s most iconic wine region. The result? A standout experience that brought together flavor, creativity, and a deep appreciation for Rioja’s rich winemaking heritage.

The Winning Pairing

After much anticipation, we’re thrilled to announce that Modern Steak has taken top honors in the Calgary Rioja Best Pairings competition with a pairing that wowed judges and guests alike: a jamón and cheese croqueta served alongside a glass of CUNE Reserva. This dish balanced bold, savory flavors with the smooth elegance of one of Rioja’s most celebrated wines—offering a true taste of Spain in the heart of Calgary.

Celebrating a Century of Rioja

The event was one of many taking place around the world to mark Rioja’s Centennial, honoring 100 years of winemaking excellence and the timeless character that defines this world-renowned region. Guests were invited to sip and savor expertly paired Rioja wines with inspired tapas at participating Calgary restaurants throughout the month of March 2025.

As Seen in Culinaire Magazine

The winning pairing from Modern Steak will be featured in the May 2025 edition of Culinaire Magazine, out now. Be sure to pick up a copy to read more about the event, see photos from participating restaurants, and discover why Rioja remains one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world.

Explore More Rioja

Whether you’re new to Rioja or a longtime fan, this competition served as a delicious reminder of how perfectly Rioja wines complement elevated cuisine. Explore more of our red, white, and rosado wines online—and discover your own perfect pairing.

Cheers to Modern Steak, and cheers to 100 more years of Rioja!