Wine Cellar
Behind a cuisine rooted in exceptional ingredients and expressive creations lies a wine cellar designed to match its essence—home to over 800 national and international labels, each carefully selected.
These creative and innovative gastronomic offerings are elevated by the sensitivity and talent of María José Huertas, one of Spain’s most celebrated sommeliers. With a career spanning over two decades, she has perfected the art of pairing wines with Paco Roncero’s cuisine. Her work goes beyond sight, smell, or taste; it is a full sensory experience, evident in every detail.
The wine list is the result of a thoughtful, in-depth analysis, crafted to align with the philosophy of the restaurant. The result: a selection that is visually appealing, yet clear, approachable, and a true pleasure to explore. It is a living list—constantly evolving—ensuring a coherent and always-available offering.
Currently housing around 800 references, the cellar offers guests a dynamic and ever-renewing experience. Some wines remain as timeless staples, others rotate, making room for new additions or expanding vertically to showcase the story of a single label through the years.
Spanish wines make up approximately 50% of the list, which is structured into Fortified, Sparkling, White, Rosé, Red, and Sweet wines.
For over 20 years, María José has worked hand in hand with Paco Roncero. A deep connection that reveals itself in every choice—from the meticulous selection of labels to the exclusive pairings that accompany and elevate each dish on the menu.
María José Huertas – Leading Sommelier in Spain
María José Huertas is one of the most recognized sommeliers in Spain. With over two decades of experience in the wine and gastronomy sectors, she has developed a strong career in the world of wine, dining room service, and wine education. Currently, she is the sommelier at Paco Roncero Restaurant (2 Michelin stars), located in the iconic Real Casino de Madrid.
Education in Oenology and Gastronomy
María José Huertas has a technical and specialized education that has laid the foundation for her professional development:
- Technical Agricultural Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Madrid, specializing in Agro-food Industries.
- Sommelier course at the Madrid Chamber of Commerce – First in her promotion.
- Training stints at El Bulli, one of the most influential restaurants in the world.
- International certifications:
- WSET Level 3 (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) – Pass with Merit.
- WSET Level 1 in Sake.
Professional Experience
Since 2000, she has served as head sommelier at Paco Roncero Restaurant, where she has designed a wine list of prestigious international wines. Her approach combines the selection of Spanish wines with a careful inclusion of international references, always focusing on quality, pairing, and sustainability.
Additionally:
- Member of the tasting panel of Sobremesa magazine since 2006.
- Regular collaborator in media such as La Vanguardia (wine tastings).
- Participant in tastings for international magazines such as Decanter.
- Judge in national sommelier competitions.
Awards and Recognition
Her excellence has been endorsed by the most important awards in the oenology and gastronomy sectors:
Main sommelier awards:
- National Gastronomy Award (2003)
- Sommelier of the Year – Grupo Gourmets (2003)
- Metrópoli Award from El Mundo (2003)
- Best Sommelier of the Madrid Region – Madrid Fusión (2004)
- International Academy of Gastronomy Award (2005)
- Verema Award for Best Sommelier (2018)
- Nº1 in the Top 100 Sommeliers of Spain (2024)
- Excellence Award Gourmets 40th Anniversary (2025)
- Among others.
María José Huertas in the Wine World
With a comprehensive vision of the wine world, María José combines technique, sensitivity, and experience. Her name is synonymous with high-level sommelier expertise in Spain, serving as a reference for professionals, wineries, specialized press, and wine lovers.
