Wine Bar Conversations (V): João Alcântara
He is the creative mind behind a Brazilian cuisine that blends tradition and creativity, gourmet pleasure and healthy living. In the culinary creations served at his FOgO Traveling Dinners, João Alcântara expresses the contrasts and fusions of his homeland, Brazil. Now he embarks on a new venture: opening his first “atelier restaurant” in Barcelona.
Does Brazil have a wine culture?
More of a sparkling wine culture. But red wine is gaining a lot of momentum, and most of it comes from Spanish, Chilean and Argentinean wineries. Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widespread.
As an athlete and personal chef to important international athletes, are you in favor of drinking wine?
Of course, because it inspires joy. It is an emotional product. This helps maintain a healthy mind, which in turn has positive effects on the body. Wine brings the soul and the body into balance.
When you have a condition like diabetes, which you do, isn't it difficult to drink wine?
No, you simply have to be careful with how much you drink and what you mix it with. It is all about knowing how to strike the right balance.
Do you also cook with wine?
Yes. I believe that the wine I like to drink should also play a role in the dishes I make—my creamy rice, for example, or some of my sauces.
Speaking of which, your cooking is becoming well-known in Spain...
It is creative, world-influenced Brazilian cuisine into which I incorporate my life experiences and emotions. I want to convey the joy that characterizes Brazilians and introduce others to my country, its people and products. I want to make edible culture. Brazilian cuisine is still a great mystery to many! It is very healthy, varied and open due to the great diversity in climate, geography and vegetation. It also reflects cultures, origins and histories. This fusion is present in the flavors, textures and colors. As a food culture, it really lends itself to creativity. It is important to explore it with an open mind, because it has no limits.
Why did you choose Torres for your FOgO Traveling Dinners?
It was a very organic process. I attended Torres's tastings and listened to the winery's sommeliers. They knew exactly how to convey the essence of their wines, which happened to complete my cooking perfectly. We go hand in hand. Also, by being a family-run company, Torres knows how to cultivate small and exclusive projects like ours.
Name some of your favorite wines.
I would pick two: Jean Leon Vinya Gigi Chardonnay and Torres's Reserva Real, which is impressive from the moment it enters the palate. I'm also a stalwart of Priorat wines, because they have a lot of personality; they convey a true sense of the land.
Your favorite moment to enjoy a glass of wine...
When I'm happy and in love. I'll tell you a secret: seducing someone isn't about the food, but a good wine.
