Daily Cooking Classes: Spanish Fish

I have just returned from my first tour, 4 night Jerez Tour with Annie B Spain. It exceeded my expectations in every way. It was incredibly well organised, and Annie’s attention to detail is second to none. With her experience and knowledge of the region we had access to very niche Bodegas and Vineyards which were fascinating, and the sherry and wine absolutely superb. The restaurants we went to were excellent, and each one chosen to give you a different flavour of Spain. The other people on the tour were wonderful and lasting friendships were made. This for me will be the first of many!

From the beginning I knew this would be an unforgettable experience but Annie B was able to top up and surpass my expectations. To start with she is an incredible human being that cares about others and about what she does. And boy, she does it so well! We were a very diverse group with one thing in common: the interest in watching the almadraba. And with her guidance and leadership, the differences were never a concern but rather an “ingredient” that made the interactions even more interesting. Seeing the ancient practice of tuna fishing up close is one of those exclusive and unique experiences that one cherishes for the rest of one’s life and Annie managed to make it happen in a way that you feel you’re watching something really special happen. Her knowledge of the culture, history and culinary of the region is also remarkable. You walk with her through the streets of Vejer de la Frontera and see that everybody knows, respects and likes her. I not only recommend this program but left with the feeling that I could do it again in the future!

I spent a week with Annie B in her Spanish Culinary Classics course, fully immersed in the food, wine, and culture of Andalucía—and it exceeded every expectation. Annie is a true tour de force: her energy and enthusiasm are boundless, whether she’s leading a hands-on cooking session in her kitchen or guiding us through day trips to Barbate, Cádiz, and the Sherry Triangle. Choosing the full week was absolutely the right decision. Each day brought something new, and there wasn’t a single moment I would have wanted to miss. The experience strikes a perfect balance between structured learning and relaxed enjoyment, with plenty of opportunities to connect with the region in an authentic way. The food was outstanding—both in flavor and variety—and I came away with dishes I feel confident recreating at home. And the sherries and wines? Generous, thoughtfully selected, and an education in themselves. Every glass felt like an extension of the culinary journey. If you’re looking for more than just a cooking class—something immersive, memorable, and deeply rooted in place—Annie B delivers.

After 20 odd years in the andalusian village of vejer de la frontera annie b seems to know everyone and everything about all things food. her ebullient, gregarious self gains access to the best the region has to offer including, in our case, observing up close the ancient almadraba method of catching the migrating bluefin tuna. nowadays much of the catch is destined for the discerning japanese market and as a consequence, although one does indeed witness the killing of the fish, it is under circumstances that even temple grandin (the prominent advocate for the humane treatment of livestock would approve of) and i came away with a deep appreciation for the skill and bravery of the people who have harvested the fish every spring for 3000 years. annie’s ability to herd cats, adapt plans and encourage interaction is truly impressive. we were a diverse group of 10, socially, linguistically, politically, age-wise and culinary experience wise but under her guidance we became a focussed team of eaters and cooks with a healthy dose of sherry thrown in to grease the wheels. the cost may seem high but once you sign up you don’t have to spend another penny and the relationships annie has with her community are priceless.

We spent four memorable days in Vejer de la Frontera, the highlight was definitely witnessing the Almadraba, which is the ancient technique for trapping and catching Atlantic bluefin tuna. It was truly fascinating to see and learn about the process and of course savor the delicious tuna served in many forms. We also went to the local market to buy the ingredients for a cooking class which Annie coordinated beautifully in her quaint kitchen and ensured we had fun in the process. Attending the “Ruta del Atun” day where we visited 9 restaurants to taste their tuna tapas was a unique and fun experience as well. Annie is more than a tour guide, she’s like an ambassador for Vejer, its culture and food. If you’re planning to travel to Andalucia in May, and enjoy a culinary adventure, I highly recommend this tour!

Honestly one of the best things I’ve ever booked. I went in not knowing much about Spanish wine and came out completely hooked. Our guide knew every winery owner by name, the pacing was relaxed, and the little tapas stops between tastings were places you’d never find on your own.

We first visited Annie B in late 2021, just as the world was reopening to travel. We spent a magical week in Vejer and the surrounding area, learning about sherry and tuna and enjoying all the delicious food, wine and sites. With a special “0” birthday this March, we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than a return visit to Annie and beautiful Vejer. Our group of 10 friends had a marvelous afternoon with the very engaging Chente, an architect, artist and chef who opened his private dining club to prepare a delicious lunch. Another highlight was visiting a goat farm, where we got to milk the goats, saw cheese being made, and had the best goat cheese we have ever tasted! But the best part of any trip to Vejer is going to market and cooking in Annie’s kitchen with the delightful Pepi. Annie is so charming and warm, her home is lovely and her huge passion for food and wine (especially sherry!) is as infectious and welcoming as this most beautiful part of Spain. We’ll be going back soon!