How to Plan Your La Rioja Group Winery Tour and Tasting

If you’re a wine lover, nothing can beat the experience of touring the old vineyards and traditional wineries of La Rioja, Spain. The region boasts a long history of winemaking, and it’s renowned for its flavorful and robust red wines. Now, with the opportunity to book the La Rioja group winery tour and tasting, visitors can join a guided tour of local wineries and sample two local red wines paired with some delicious snacks. To help you make the most of this unique experience, here’s our guide on how to plan your La Rioja group winery tour and tasting.

What Is the La Rioja Group Winery Tour and Tasting?

The La Rioja group winery tour and tasting is a small group wine tour that takes visitors to local wineries in Alfaro. Upon arrival, a sommelier takes visitors on a tour of the winery and provides information about the tradition of winemaking in the area. After the tour, visitors are treated to a tasting of two red wines matched with some small regional dishes.

Why Choose the La Rioja Group Winery Tour and Tasting?

There are several good reasons to choose the La Rioja group winery tour and tasting. Some of these reasons include:

Expert Guidance

The winery tour is hosted by a sommelier who has a great deal of knowledge and expertise about wine. The sommelier provides detailed information about the winery, the history of the wine, and the grapes that are used in the winemaking process.

Small Group Size

The tour takes place in a small group setting, so visitors can get up close and personal with the winery and have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn more about the local wine.

Tasty Snacks

The wine tasting is paired with some delicious and authentic regional dishes, giving visitors a true taste of the region’s culinary culture.

What to Expect on the Tour

Here’s what you can expect when you book the La Rioja group winery tour and tasting:

Winery Tour

Visitors get to tour a local winery set up in an old hanger in Alfaro. The tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at the wine production process, including details about the grape varieties used and the winemaking techniques employed.

Wine Tasting

The tour includes a wine tasting featuring two local red wines. The sommelier who hosts the tour will share information about each wine and answer questions from visitors.

Regional Snacks

The wine tasting is paired with some small regional dishes that perfectly complement the wine. The snacks are designed to give visitors a real taste of the local culinary culture.

How to Book the La Rioja Group Winery Tour and Tasting

To book the La Rioja group winery tour and tasting, use this link: Book the tour here. The tour includes guided winery tour, sample of two red wines, local snacks, and hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour is not suitable for children under 15 years.

In Conclusion

The La Rioja group winery tour and tasting is a must-try experience for anyone interested in wine or the local culture. The tour offers an in-depth look at the winemaking process and provides visitors with the opportunity to sample local wines and foods. To make the most of your experience, follow our guide on how to plan your La Rioja group winery tour and tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions About La Rioja, Spain

La Rioja is a small region in the north of Spain, renowned for its wine and breathtaking landscapes. Its capital, Logroño, has charming streets and a famous food scene. Despite its popularity, many questions arise about traveling to La Rioja. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about La Rioja, Spain:

What is the best time to visit La Rioja?

The best time to visit La Rioja is during the harvest season, which starts in late September and lasts until the end of October. During this time, wineries offer extensive tours that allow visitors to observe the wine-making process and participate in harvest activities. However, if you’re willing to avoid the crowds, spring and early summer can be pleasant to explore the region’s countryside.

How can I get to La Rioja?

The easiest way to get to La Rioja is by flying into Bilbao or Madrid’s international airports. From there, you can rent a car and drive to La Rioja, which takes around two hours from Bilbao and three hours from Madrid. Alternatively, you can take a train from Madrid to Logroño, the region’s main city.

What are the must-visit attractions in La Rioja?

Some of the must-visit attractions in La Rioja include the famous wine cellars that produce some of the world’s top-rated wines. The cities of Logroño and Haro are also worth a visit, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. You can also explore the region’s scenic countryside filled with vineyards and picturesque villages like Briones and San Vicente de la Sonsierra.

What types of wines can I try in La Rioja?

La Rioja is known for its red wine production, specifically the Tempranillo grape variety. Some of the most significant sub-regions producing high-quality red wines in La Rioja include Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, and Rioja Oriental. Apart from red wine, you can also taste white and rose wine, but they are not as popular as the region’s red wine.

What food should I try in La Rioja?

La Rioja is renowned for its culinary scene, with some of Spain’s best restaurants located in the region. One local specialty is the grilled lamb chops or cordero asado. You can also try the region’s famous vegetable stew, called menestra, and patatas a la riojana, a spicy dish made with chorizo and potatoes. Don’t forget to try the local cheese, made from sheep’s milk, and the pintxos, which are snacks usually consumed with a drink at local bars.

What outdoor activities can I do in La Rioja?

La Rioja’s countryside provides excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. You can explore the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route that passes through the region or hike in the Sierra de la Demanda mountain range. Another popular activity is hot air ballooning where you get a bird’s eye view of the region’s vineyards and landscape.

What is the weather like in La Rioja?

La Rioja has a continental climate, which means hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 32°C (90°F). Winter, from December to February, can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping to freezing points. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

What souvenirs can I buy in La Rioja?

La Rioja is famous for its wine, so it’s no surprise that wine is one of the most popular souvenirs. You can buy a bottle or two of the region’s famous wine and take it home with you. Local handicrafts such as pottery and wooden toys are also popular souvenirs. Make sure to visit one of the region’s many markets to purchase items like sausages, cheese, and other local foods.

Conclusion

La Rioja is a stunning destination filled with scenic landscapes, delicious food, and world-class wine. Planning a trip to La Rioja can sometimes be challenging due to its remote location, but it is undoubtedly worth it. The region has something for everyone, from wine connoisseurs to outdoor enthusiasts. Hopefully, this guide answered some of the most common questions about La Rioja, Spain, and has inspired you to visit this beautiful region.