The powerful gastronomic footprint of Carles Vilarrubí

BarcelonaWe are in mourning, shocked, and deeply saddened. We weren't expecting it. The world of Catalan culinary culture and gastronomy has lost the drive and irreplaceable strength of a multifaceted, dynamic, and inspiring figure, capable of achieving goals without the inferiority complex of a small country.

The Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition has lost its most innovative president. A president deeply committed to the country's culture, an observer of the potential of young chefs, and a follower of both the most renowned and media-savvy cuisine and that of the many undiscovered restaurants throughout the region, all of which cook with the passion he felt for the food, imbued with the spirit of the landscape and heritage.

He had a habit he indulged whenever possible: he would petition the appropriate authorities to include more Catalan wines on restaurant wine lists. He possessed a profound sensitivity towards the primary sector, and his mission was to proclaim the values that inspire our cuisine, including its healthy and nutritional aspects. He empathized with the farming, fishing, and livestock sectors. For this reason, he tirelessly launched initiatives to defend the economic engine of this sector. During his presidency of ACGN, it was commonplace to carry out educational campaigns in this field, aimed at a society so lacking in these values. We all know that we are heading in a disoriented direction towards the food of the future.

He was a president who could have endorsed JV Foix's proclamation: "The number nine exalts me, and the old man enchants me." Under his presidency, the National Gastronomy Award was split, and now creative cuisine and traditional cuisine are awarded in the same category.

Carlos was a man who radiated enthusiasm for life; his professional experience had made him a man who understood the world and understood people. A man with a very respectful approach to others. His eyes would light up when he spoke about film, art, literature, hunting, horses, travel, Barça, Catalonia, or family. Above all, creativity overflowed from his eyes when he spoke about new cultural and educational projects at ACGN, always with the aim of revitalizing cultural heritage.

How lucky I was to have known you, Carlos! How lucky I was to have shared ideas, passions, and gastronomic goals! It has been a great honor for me to be part of the ACGN board. Although you leave us with your entrepreneurial and tireless spirit, your willingness to unite forces and objectives, all of us who knew you must bear the great sadness of losing you. We will miss you always!