After a career spanning over twenty-five years in renowned gastronomic establishments worldwide, sommelier Guillermo Lucas has decided to return to his hometown, Puerto Real, to embark on a new personal project. 'El Almacén', which opened in February 2025, presents itself as a wine shop, food store, and tasting room aiming to democratize wine consumption.
Lucas, who worked in cities such as London, San Francisco, and Dubai, managing cellars with thousands of references and serving high-profile clients, states that this project in Puerto Real is the most personal of his career. The establishment offers a curated selection of national and international wines, alongside gastronomic products like artisan cheeses, cured meats, and preserves, personally chosen by the owner.
The concept of 'El Almacén' is distinguished by its social focus, featuring a large communal table in the center of the venue. This arrangement encourages interaction and the exchange of experiences among customers, a dimension Lucas considers essential to the business's philosophy. "It's very beautiful to see how people end up sharing food, wine, and conversation. Anthropologically, it's an achievement," he comments.
With 'El Almacén', Guillermo Lucas seeks to break away from the elitist image traditionally associated with the wine world. His tastings are designed to be accessible and educational, adapting to the client's knowledge level without being intimidating. The wine list prioritizes quality, lesser-known selections, offering alternatives at more affordable prices than mainstream brands.
“"Wine makes sense when it is shared."
Lucas concludes that the essence of wine lies in shared enjoyment, an experience that does not necessarily require major international capitals but rather a good conversation and a shared table in Puerto Real.
