Yep today was the day and, as it turned out, I spent most of my actual Sevilla anniversary in Jerez. Starting with a visit to the smallest sherry bodega in the world (more on that later). Back in Jerez we enjoyed a tapas lunch at a “new” place I’ve been wanting to visit since it opened, but covid got in the way. Happy to report that Bina Bar did not disappoint and, as always, we had a great time with friends Anne & Paul.

Later we stopped at another tapas bar for a penúltima before heading to the super posh 5-star Casa Palacio María Luísa for pre-train cocktails out in the garden. Paul insisted on instructing the barman on how to make the perfect vodka dry martini and, I have to say, he was not wrong! It was probably the best martini of my life.

Then it was time to head home and, although Peter seemed like he was done for the day, when I realised we’d be getting back to Sevilla at 8 pm I suggested we get off at San Bernardo station and get the tram to the city centre… and then stop in at Bodeguita Romero. Which we did, suitcase in tow. We both knew if we went home first there was no way we’d go out again.

And it was perfect. The place was packed even though we got there shortly after opening time but María magicked a couple of bar stools for us next to the open front doors. And it just felt right to be there on my anniversary, a bar that feels so much like home. We just had a couple of snacks and Alejandro invited us to a small bottle of Corpinat sparkling rosé (gorgeous!).

After that we wandered home. I didn’t even unpack. Just dropped the suitcase, cuddled the girls (who were waiting by the front door), had a nice hot shower and flopped into bed, feeling so happy about all these years here, and all the wonderful people I’ve come to know, in Sevilla and elsewhere.