14.2.15 Bar Juanito; Flamenco & Sherry Experience

Faustino Rodriguez, owner of the famous Bar Juanito in Jerez has been made a Hijo Predilecto (Honoured Son) of the city. He was presented with the honour by the mayor today at a special council meeting at the Claustros de San Domingo, attended by many local business people. Faustino has another business, the catering company Alta Cazuela, also known for quality and reliability.

Famous for his sense of humour and his alcachofas (artichokes), he started out washing glasses with his father, working in various family businesses such as a bakery and a tobacconist, and ended up founding in 1983 the current bar/restaurant which seems to occupy virtually a whole street (Pescadería Vieja just off the Plaza Arenal). A marvellous place for local cuisine and atmosphere.

Faustino Rodriguez, smiling as ever (foto:reporterosjerez)

The Flamenco and Sherry Experience will take place this year at the bodegas of González Byass on Friday 27^th and Saturday 28^th February at 13.00. This is a brilliantly conceived event where each style of Sherry is compared to each style of Flamenco and it is now an integral part of the Festival de Jerez.

Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso, Palo Cortado and Cream will be tasted and explained along with the Buleria, Soleá, Siguiriya and Fandango. To the senses of sight, smell and taste will be added the sense of sound via an audiovisual experience which pays homage to the Flamenco greats.

9.11.12 Palacio Domecq is sold

Juan Rodriguez, a Jerezano with interests in bars and catering in Jerez is to buy the historic old seat of the Domecqs from Beam for 4 million euros. The deal was signed yesterday after 6 months of negotiations.  Sr. Rodriguez is involved with Alta Cazuela, a catering firm (which provided the food at the Alcazar recently for the Grand Tastings for the Fiesta de la Vendimia), and the famous traditional Bar Juanito. He sees great possibilities in the building for hotel and up market catering, creating another top quality venue in Jerez.

What held up negotiations for so long – six months – was the question of what was to be done with the contents of the palace; numerous works of art including paintings, tapestries, photographs, and all the trappings of the Domecqs’ position in Jerez for 300 years.

The fact that the palace is a listed building (a Bien de Interes Cultural) and is so centrally situated (in the Alameda Cristina) appealed to Sr. Rodriguez, and keeping it open to the public features in his plans. The building dates from the XVII C, was renovated in the 1970s and is in excellent condition. It is listed for domestic use which restricts but doesn’t impede its use for weddings for example.

Interior Patio of the Palacio Domecq