Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour with Wine Tasting

The Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour with Wine Tasting offers a full-day experience exploring some of the most notable wineries near Madrid, Spain. For $167.99 per person, this approximately 6-hour journey takes you into the heart of Vinos de Madrid, a protected Denomination of Origin. The tour includes visits to three wineries, sampling more than 10 wines, accompanied by light snacks and regional delicacies. The group size remains small, with a maximum of 20 participants, ensuring an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention from expert guides.

This tour is ideal for those interested in Spanish wines, history, and culture, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tastings on your own. While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and quality wine tastings, note that lunch is not included, though plenty of light snacks and regional specialties are served at the wineries. The starting point is conveniently located in central Madrid, with morning departure at 9:30 am, and the entire experience is organized with comfort and education in mind.

Key Points

• Visit three wineries in Madrid’s wine region, with over 10 wines sampled
• Expert guides provide insights into varietals, production, and history
• Small group tours with a maximum of 20 guests for a personalized experience
• Includes light snacks, regional cheeses, ham, and hot dishes served at wineries
• Tour duration: approximately 6 hours with transportation in air-conditioned vans
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point and Transportation from Madrid

The tour begins at Plaza del Conde de Casal, 6, in Madrid, at the front door of the hotel Claridge. This central location is easily accessible via nearby Metro (Conde de Casal, Line 6). From here, participants board an air-conditioned minivan for a scenic drive into Madrid’s wine countryside, about 30 km from the city center. The journey offers a glimpse of Madrid’s transition from urban streets to lush vineyards and hillside wineries.

The transportation is included in the price, and the vehicle comfortably carries small groups, ensuring a relaxed and engaging experience. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, allowing for easy access to other city attractions or evening plans.

Exploring the Vinos de Madrid Region

The Vinos de Madrid region has a long tradition of winemaking, dating back centuries. This tour focuses on both traditional and modern wineries, showcasing the diversity in styles and techniques. The region’s vineyards are often just a short drive from Madrid, giving a feeling of stepping into a different world without traveling far.

The landscape varies from ancient vineyards to newer, innovative wineries, promising a mix of heritage and contemporary craft. Visiting three different wineries allows participants to see a range of production styles, from family-run estates to boutique wineries with cave cellars and clay fermentation methods.

First Stop: Señorio de Val Azul

The first stop is a boutique winery producing high-quality wines from organic vineyards. Located about 30 km from Madrid, this winery emphasizes organic farming and small-batch production. The setting transports visitors back into Madrid’s winemaking past, with scenic views of sprawling vineyards.

Here, guests get an introduction to the region’s history and the unique qualities of organic winemaking. Expect to taste signature wines made from local grapes, with the opportunity to learn from the owners about their approach. The visit lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, and admission is included.

Second Stop: Bodega del Nero

Next, the tour moves to Bodega del Nero in a historic Madrid town. This winery has 900 years of winemaking tradition within the fertile vegas region, where the rivers Manzanares, Tajuña, Jarama, Henares, and Tajo meet. The winery is situated on former riverbanks and is part of the Madrid Denomination of Origin.

Guests explore traditional production methods, including the use of large clay jars and centuries-old caves for wine resting. The guide and winemakers explain the processes while sampling more wines. The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with admission included.

Third Stop: Bodegas Jesús Díaz e Hijos

The final winery is Bodegas Jesús Díaz e Hijos in Colmenar de Oreja, a family-owned hotel with over 100 years of history. This winery is notable for its historic setting inside an old Franciscan convent.

Visitors tour the centuries-old caves where wines are stored, and learn about clay jar fermentation, a method that has persisted for generations. This intimate visit showcases traditional winemaking and concludes the wine tastings, which include reds, whites, and regional specialties. The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with admission included.

Tasting Experience and Local Nibbles

Throughout the day, the tour offers over 10 wines, including Tempranillo reds and Malvar whites, made from local grapes. The wineries serve signature snacks such as Iberico ham, local cheeses, and regional hot dishes. These snacks are substantial enough to serve as a light lunch, meaning no further meal is necessary.

Guests can expect generous wine samples at each winery, with opportunities to learn about varietals, production techniques, and regional wine heritage. The guide provides ongoing explanations, making this an educational experience as well as a tasting.

The Role of the Guides and Tour Atmosphere

The tour features knowledgeable bilingual guides who are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. Guides like Antonio, Muna, Nacho, Ismael, and Martha are regularly highlighted for their friendly approach and ability to communicate complex details simply.

The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for personal interactions with winemakers and a more relaxed pace. Despite occasional weather challenges, guides keep the atmosphere lively, and the scenic views of the vineyards add to the overall enjoyment.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves several walking tours of wineries, including caves and cellars which can be cold and involve some uneven surfaces. Guests should dress warmly, especially in cooler months, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

Children under 18 years cannot participate in the wine tasting, but the tour’s light snacks and scenery make it suitable for adults seeking a relaxed, educational day outside Madrid.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

At $167.99, the tour offers value for money given the inclusion of transportation, over 10 wine tastings, light regional snacks, and guided visits to three different wineries. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the free cancellation policy adds flexibility for planners.

Many reviews mention that the quality of wines and guides surpass expectations, with some describing it as their best wine experience in Madrid. The scenic drives and authentic winery visits add to the overall appeal, making this tour suitable for wine enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals to adults interested in Spanish wines, regional culture, and small-scale wineries. It suits those who prefer a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and professional guides. The experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Madrid wanting a taste of local winemaking, as well as those seeking an educational day out.

While it isn’t designed for children under 12, wine aficionados and food lovers will find plenty to enjoy—including the opportunity to try regional cheeses, ham, and hot dishes alongside wine tastings.

Final Thoughts on the Madrid Wineries Tour

The Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and exceptional wines. It’s a well-organized, small-group experience that showcases both traditional and modern winemaking practices. The knowledgeable guides and generous wine tastings make this tour stand out, providing a meaningful taste of Madrid’s wine heritage.

While lunch is not included, the light snacks and ample wine samples ensure you won’t go hungry. The tour provides a balanced mix of education, taste, and scenery, perfect for wine lovers eager to explore Madrid’s lesser-known but vibrant wine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including transport, visits, and tastings.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, children under 18 cannot participate in the wine tasting component.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and warm clothes if visiting during cooler months, as some winery cellars are cold.

Is lunch included?
No, there is no lunch included. However, light snacks, regional cheeses, ham, and hot dishes are served at the wineries and are sufficient as a meal.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Plaza del Conde de Casal, 6 in Madrid, with convenient access via Metro.

What’s the best way to book?
Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is frequently booked 32 days in advance. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

The Madrid Countryside Wineries Guided Tour with Wine Tasting provides a well-rounded, personal exploration of Madrid’s wine scene, making it a worthwhile addition to any visit to the Spanish capital.