Feira do vino Sober in the Ribeira Sacra – Unmissable
Not to be outdone by Mer, Sober had the yearly “Feira do vino”. This event draws in huge crowds from all around and it centers around what is done locally with the fruits of – vines – the great grapes of Ribeira Sacra and within it Amandi.
The preparations start about a week in advance, with great tents going up as should it rain no-one wants the vine to be diluted. It’s a true feria (Gallego = Feira) with artisans, food – more than you could ever eat -, pulpo, fresh and prepared before your eyes, music, music, music and obviously lots of different reds.
Music plays a very important part in Galicia. Monforte and Ourense are quite famous for their music conservatories. Nearly everyone here plays at least one instrument. There are numerous “Gaitas” and in Sober we have the “Banda de Sober” and when they are in full swing they can easily lift the tent roof.
The feria do vino is always the weekend of Ramon (weekend before Easter Sunday) the ramp up to Semana Santa (Easter). The population of rural Galicia easily trebles and this is the perfect opportunity to meet. One ambles along, greets friends, neighbors and acquaintances whilst maybe taking a coffee or depending on the time of day starts sampling – the reds that is.
This is the perfect time to see and be seen.
The Saturday starts slowly. Last preparations are made and usually the locals drift in. A great time to chat and renew acquaintances. On Sunday the place goes mad. Free buses are laid on so 
everyone can sample the alcoholic delights and the normally sedate Sober just heaves with people.
Sorry if you missed it. Look out for the Feira do Vino – Sober – in 2010 and make sure you don’t miss it again.
A big thank you and well done to all the organisers, adegas, artisans and all the people who just help and make this THE FEIRA (Feria).
There is a smal slide show here – just click – Slide show Feira do vino sober
Poco mas photos – pulse aqui – Feira do Vino mas photos
Expat
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