Full Day Tasting The Unknown Rioja Wine Region

Exploring the Rioja wine region offers a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and, of course, exceptional wines. This full-day private tour from San Sebastian provides an authentic and personalized experience, with a carefully curated itinerary that includes visits to several renowned wineries, tasting multiple wines, and enjoying a delicious local lunch. Priced at $487.22 per person, this tour boasts a 9-hour experience that balances wine education, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty. With pickup included and a professional driver at the wheel, visitors can relax and focus on the wine, the landscapes, and the stories behind each label.

The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 32 reviews, with 100% recommendation rate. It’s best suited for those who appreciate wine, enjoy learning about regional specialties, and prefer an intimate setting over large group trips. The private nature ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a tailored Rioja experience.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide and driver
• Multiple winery visits, tasting a total of 12 wines across different styles
• Exclusive tastings of classic and new Rioja wines, with options to buy or ship wines home
• Architectural highlights at Frank Gehry’s Marques de Riscal and Santiago Calatrava’s Ysios winery
• Local lunch in Laguardia, with time to explore the medieval town and underground tunnels
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Flexible itinerary with options to visit different wineries or customize stops

Scenic Drive from San Sebastian to Rioja

The tour begins with a 90-minute drive from San Sebastian in an air-conditioned vehicle. This journey offers a gradual change of scenery, from the Basque coast to the rolling vineyards of Rioja. The relaxed pace allows time to absorb the landscape and prepare for the wine adventure ahead. Our guide provides commentary along the way, setting the tone for the day and sharing insights into the region’s history.

This drive is also an opportunity to enjoy the comfort of private transportation, avoiding the crowds and hassle often associated with larger tours. The scenic route is a highlight for those who love seeing the countryside and getting a sense of Rioja’s expansive vineyards.

Visiting Bodegas Gomez Cruzado in Haro

The first winery stop, Bodegas y Vinedos Gomez Cruzado, is located in Haro, a city notable for being among the first in Spain with electricity, thanks to its wine production. Here, visitors sample five wines that showcase both traditional and modern styles of Rioja. The tasting includes local olive oil, providing a taste of regional flavors.

A walk through the historic neighborhood reveals the classic architecture of some of the oldest wineries in Rioja. This stop offers a chance to meet the proprietors and see where the region’s winemaking legacy is preserved. The visit lasts around 45 minutes, with an option to purchase or ship exclusive wines directly from the winery.

Tasting at Bodegas Hermanos Pecina

Next, the tour visits Hermanos Pecina, where a tasting of three wines takes place in a relaxed setting. The selection includes Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva wines, with whites available for enthusiasts. An assortment of local Riojan appetizers is provided to complement the wines.

This stop emphasizes the diversity of Rioja wines, from younger, fresher reds to more complex, aged bottles. The 40-minute tasting offers an intimate look at the winemaking process and the different aging categories that define Rioja.

Marveling at Marques de Riscal’s Architectural Masterpiece

One of the highlights of the tour is the Marqués de Riscal winery, designed by Frank Gehry. Visitors enjoy views from a secret viewpoint within the vineyards, witnessing the striking, avant-garde architecture that resembles a surreal sculpture. The winery, established in 1858, is among the oldest in Rioja and was a pioneer in aging wine in oak barrels at the end of the 19th century.

Although the visit can be tailored to include a full tour of the winery’s interior, the 10-minute stop primarily focuses on appreciating the spectacular design and landscape integration. It’s a photo-worthy moment and a chance to see how architecture can define the modern face of Rioja.

Admiring Santiago Calatrava’s Ysios Winery

In front of the Bodegas Ysios, admire a unique boutique winery crafted by Santiago Calatrava. The building’s modern, flowing lines contrast sharply with the traditional surroundings, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains.

This 10-minute stop is ideal for architecture enthusiasts and offers an excellent opportunity for photos. The winery’s design highlights the innovative spirit present in Rioja’s winemaking community, blending modern art with regional tradition.

Exploring Underground Cellars at Carlos San Pedro Vinaspre

The tour includes a 55-minute visit to Bodegas Carlos San Pedro Perez de Vinaspre, where a short discovery walk leads underground to medieval wine cellars in the village of Laguardia. Here, some wineries continue aging wines in traditional underground caves, creating a distinctive atmosphere for wine tasting.

The three wines sampled in the wine cave reflect Rioja’s commitment to tradition, offering a taste of wines that have matured in a historic setting. This underground experience provides a tangible link to Rioja’s longstanding heritage in winemaking.

Discovering Laguardia’s Medieval Charm and Tasting Tunnels

The final stop features a walk through Laguardia, a medieval hilltop town renowned as the capital of Rioja Alavesa. The town’s fortified churches, San Juan Bautista and Santa María de los Reyes, stand out among the well-preserved architecture.

Visitors have 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy a local restaurant lunch and explore the town’s labyrinth of over 300 underground tunnels. These tunnels, built hundreds of years ago, had various historical uses and are now a fascinating part of Laguardia’s cultural landscape. The chance to stroll through the narrow streets and underground corridors adds depth to the regional experience.

All-Inclusive Tasting and Lunch

This full-day tour includes tastings of 12 wines across multiple wineries, with 4 exclusive wines in the first tasting and 3 wines in each subsequent visit. The light local lunch in Laguardia complements the wine experience, giving guests a taste of regional cuisine.

The guide ensures a smooth experience, coordinating tastings, providing insights, and ensuring comfort. The private transportation allows for flexibility and a relaxed pace, ensuring each stop receives adequate attention.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs with pickup from your hotel in San Sebastian, using an air-conditioned, heated vehicle. The schedule runs from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, offering ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The tour is tailor-made, with options to visit different wineries or customize the stops based on preferences.

Booking is well in advance, typically 70 days ahead, reflecting high demand. Cancellation is free if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding a layer of flexibility.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this private Rioja wine tour exceptional is its blend of wine education, scenic beauty, and architecture. The inclusion of famous wineries like Marqués de Riscal and Ysios offers a visual feast, while the visit to Laguardia adds cultural depth. The personalized approach and small-group atmosphere are highly praised, ensuring tailored attention and a relaxed experience.

While the price may seem high, the all-inclusive tastings, lunch, and private transport justify the cost for those seeking a comprehensive, high-quality Rioja experience. It’s ideal for those who value exclusivity and in-depth wine knowledge without the crowds of larger tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes wine tastings at several wineries, a light local lunch, private transportation, and a local expert guide.

How long is the drive from San Sebastian?
The drive lasts approximately 90 minutes, offering scenic views as the landscape changes from coast to vineyards.

Are there options to visit different wineries?
Yes, the tour is tailor-made and can include visits to other classic Rioja wineries if requested.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but specific physical or mobility considerations are not detailed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time.

How many wines are tasted during the tour?
A total of 12 wines are sampled, including exclusive labels available for purchase or shipping.

What makes the architecture stops special?
The Marqués de Riscal building by Gehry and the Ysios winery by Calatrava are striking examples of modern design, set against stunning landscapes.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a light local lunch in Laguardia is included, with time to explore the medieval town afterward.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, allowing some customization based on your preferences.

What is the typical booking window?
Most bookings are made about 70 days in advance due to high demand.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While most travelers can participate, no specific age restrictions or considerations are provided.

This Full Day Tasting The Unknown Rioja Wine Region tour offers a comprehensive, elegant way to discover Rioja’s wines and heritage, all with the comfort of private transport, expert guidance, and exclusive tastings. Perfect for wine lovers seeking an in-depth, memorable experience in one of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions.