The Castilla y León province, north of Madrid is considered the heartland of Spain. During the 15th century the rulers of Castilla y León were the driving force for the unification with other regions, as a result Spain was created as a single political entity. Castilla y León lies on a plateau (meseta) accentuated by forested hills, at 700-1000m above sea level. It’s surrounded by high mountains in the north with the lower land given over to growing wheat, olives, and grapes. Here one finds top wine regions like Toro, Rueda and Ribera del Duero. In particular Ribera del Duero is considered one the worlds classic red wine regions. The Duero River runs across Castilla y León and continues into Portugal. In Spain the Duero provides picturesque scenery, whilst downstream, across the border in Portugal, the landscape evolves into the grand Douro Valley wine region. Castilla is named for is huge number of castles, mostly found close the Duero river. There are magnificent historic cities like Valladolid and Burgos – both former capital cities – as well as Zamora and Segovia. There is a wealth of notable small towns like Penafiel and Tordesillas. These places are rich in art and architecture, reminding us of the glory days of old Castilia. The regional Castilian cuisine relies firmly on roasted meats. The main roles are for the suckling pig cochinillo, and the lamb lechazo throughout most of Ribera del Duero. Cured hams, spicy sausages and a diverse set of cheese varieties are excellent. Classic eateries offer rustic breads, bean dishes and hearty soups or stews given extra flavour by local embutidos (cured meats). There is innovation too, with modern chefs giving traditional recipes a new twist.  Always there are good wines, we are in prime wine country here.