Tapas
A ”tapa” in Spain is mainly an appetizer served in most bars and restaurants to go along with a drink. That so Spanish form of consumption is called “tapeo”, or “ir de tapas”, to go on tapas.
The story of the “tapa” comes from the times of King Alfonso XIII. According to the legend, the King stopped in a tavern for a drink and the tavern’s owner covered (“tapar” means to cover) his cup of wine with a slice of cheese to keep flies or dust from entering. The King appreciated so much the association of his drink with something to eat that he decided to always order a “tapa” wherever he was going.
Cheese is a versatile product that goes along perfectly with wine or beer for a “tapas” moment. It is also an essential ingredient of informal dinners in family or with friends, a very Spanish moment of sharing different dishes and products. To fully enjoy its flavor, cheese can be tasted with grapes, fig jam, grated tomato, nuts or olives.