Rioja wine tour for connoisseurs
Do you know Spanish wines or wine regions? In this guest article, the specialist for Spanish wines, todovino, presents three exciting routes for wine lovers and connoisseurs that are ideal for a wine trip to Rioja. Let us invite you on these wine tours to Rioja in Spain.
Wine tour Rioja
Imagine standing on a small hill, the sun bathing the vineyards around you in a warm light, and wherever you look, you see vineyards. Welcome to Rioja, one of the most renowned wine regions in the world, where wine is not just a drink, but a way of life.
Discover the paradise for wine lovers on a wine tour through Rioja
Rioja is more than just a wine-growing region - it is an El Dorado for wine lovers, connoisseurs and explorers. Here, tradition and modernity merge in wonderful harmony, while the centuries-old art of winemaking becomes an enjoyable experience. Whether you wander through the vineyards, enjoy a tasting in a historic or hyper-modern bodega or try the regional cuisine, which of course is best combined with the local wines - such a trip will give you unforgettable moments.
That’s exactly where we want to take you – on a trip to Rioja – to discover the hidden treasures and the best wine experiences of this fascinating region.
The rich history of wine growing in Rioja
The history of wine-growing in Rioja goes back a long way and is closely linked to the history of Spain. Just like everywhere else on the peninsula, wine was grown in this area in ancient times. Especially in the 19th century, when French winemakers emigrated to Spain due to the phylloxera plague, the region was a stronghold for "French wine made in Spain" due to its proximity to southern France. A very extensive transfer of knowledge about high-quality wine-growing reached Rioja at this time, which has a lasting impact on the quality. It is not for nothing that Rioja is the oldest and, together with the Priorat, one of only two DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada) in the whole of Spain.
Differences between the Rioja wine region and the La Rioja region
At this point we would like to clear up a common misunderstanding: the Rioja wine region and the La Rioja region are not the same. The name "Rioja" is used for both the wine-growing region and the autonomous region of La Rioja, but it does not cover the same areas, nor is it "the same".
The Rioja is an autonomous community in the north of Spain, but it only covers part of the wine-growing region of Rioja. La Rioja is a political and geographical unit, while the wine region of Rioja extends beyond the borders of this region.
The Rioja wine region extends over three autonomous communities:
La Rioja, the Basque Country (especially the province of Álava) and Navarre.
This area is strictly regulated and divided into three subregions:
- Rioja-Alta,
- Rioja Alavesa and
- Rioja Oriental (formerly Rioja Baja).
It stretches for almost 100 km from west to east, on both sides of the river Ebro and across 7 valleys formed by its tributaries. It quickly becomes clear that each of these sub-regions has its own climatic conditions and soils that give the wines their distinctive character.
During your journey through Rioja you will discover traces of history everywhere – in the historic bodegas, the vineyards and the villages that have lived from and with wine for centuries.
Culinary highlights in Rioja
The Rioja wine region is not only famous for its wines, but also for its varied cuisine. Typical dishes such as Riojana potatoes (Potatoes with peppers and chorizo), Chuletas de Cordero al Sarmiento (lamb chops grilled over vine branches) and Riojan-style cod (Cod in tomato sauce) make my mouth water as I write this and are a perfect partner to the local wines.
Typical wines from Rioja are mainly red wines, which are mainly made from the Tempranillo grape variety. These wines are known for their aromas of red fruits, spices and vanilla, often accompanied by a gentle, well-integrated wood note from aging in oak barrels. Reserva and Gran Reserva wines, which have been aged for a long time, are perfect accompaniments to the region's hearty dishes. But white and rosé wine lovers also get their money's worth. There are excellent white wines made from the Viura grape and rosé wines, which are a fresh and "lighter" alternative to the "full-bodied" reds.
Best time to travel and practical tips for your wine trip to Rioja
Ready to pack your bags? But when is the best time to travel? We actually think that the wine-growing region has a special charm at any time of year. Or who would have thought that it can snow there in winter? Spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) are particularly suitable.
In spring, the vineyards bloom and the temperatures are still pleasantly mild. While in autumn, depending on the development and ripeness of the vines, you can experience the grape harvest up close and the vineyards later dress in their autumn colours.
We would also like to share with you some important general tips that have often made our lives easier:
- Book winery visits in advance:
Spontaneous visits are rarely possible, as many wineries are only accessible by prior appointment. - Make overnight and restaurant reservations:
Especially in high season and during the grape harvest, accommodation and restaurants are quickly booked out. - Use WhatsApp for communication:
Assuming you are not fluent in Spanish, this is often the quickest and most effective way to clarify reservations or questions. Whenever you see a phone number that begins with a 6 or 7, it is always a mobile number.
With all this prior knowledge, nothing stands in the way of your tour. You just have to decide which trip you want to take - or, of course, plan your vacation long enough to visit all the stops.
Three routes for your wine trip to Rioja
On this map we show you the bodegas, restaurants and sights along the three wine routes through Rioja.
- The classic wine route through Rioja Alta in blue
- The modern wine route through Rioja Alavesa in red
- The discovery route through Rioja Oriental in turquoise
The classic wine route through Rioja Alta
- Starting point: Haro
- End point: Logroño
- Length: About. 50 km
- Recommended travel time: Approximately 2 days
Special wineries with tasting offers
- Bodegas Muga (Haro Hotels *): Founded in 1932, this family-run winery with a long tradition is worth a visit. The combination of traditional and modern winemaking methods is exciting and another special feature is the company's own cooperage. At a tasting you can try Reserva as well as Gran Reserva wines - a highlight for wine lovers.
- Bodegas La Rioja Alta (Haro): This winery, which has existed since 1890, is famous for its Viña Ardanza, one of the house's most famous wines. The Viña Ardanza is considered a classic example of the tradition and excellence of Rioja wines.
- Vivanco Wineries (Briones Hotels *): Vivanco attaches great importance to wine tourism and, in addition to tastings, also offers guided tours through its own wine museum – a unique experience worldwide.
- Bodegas Vina Ijalba SA (Logrono Hotels *): Founded in 1991, this family winery is now in its third generation and cultivates its vineyards with great dedication to local grape varieties and biodiversity. In addition to wine, they also grow olives.
If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.
Culinary experiences in Rioja Alta
- Calle Laurel in Logroño: This famous tapas street offers one of the richest selections of small delicacies in all of Spain. Try the "Champiñones a la Plancha" at Bar Soriano and the slightly different Champiñones at Bar Ángel. For lovers of patatas bravas, we can also recommend Bar Jubera.
- Restaurant Los Calaos de Briones (Briones): Set in a cozy cellar vault, this restaurant serves traditional Rioja cuisine.
- Restaurant Alameda (Fuenmayor): Particularly known for its grilled meat dishes, this restaurant offers authentic dishes that perfectly match the region's strong wines.
- Beethoven Restaurant (Haro): Perhaps a small “institution”, as the bar has been around since 1941. Bar? Restaurant? Exactly – a very quaint bar and a restaurant for local Rioja cuisine.
Other attractions in Rioja Alta
- Casalarreina: In this small town is the monastery of La Piedad, a beautiful jewel of the Renaissance period.
- Yuso Monastery: This huge monastery complex is located in the middle of nowhere - nowadays - you have to plan some time to get there. The building complex that can be visited today dates back to the 16th to 18th centuries and the sacristy is one of the most beautiful in all of Spain.
The modern wine route through Rioja Alavesa
Overview of the route
- Starting point: labastida
- End point: labraza
- Length: About. 50 km
- Recommended travel time: Approximately 2 days – don’t be surprised – the route always goes a little bit through Rioja Alta
Special wineries and tastings
- Ysios Wineries (Laguardia Hotels *): This winery, which was founded in 2001, impresses with its modern architecture, the shape of the roof of which reflects the slightly hilly landscape. In the building designed by Santiago Calatrava, you can immerse yourself in the modern wine world of Ysios on a tour.
- Bodegas Marqués de Riscal (Elciego Hotels *): This bodega is one of the oldest wineries in Rioja, was founded in 1858 and combines tradition with modern architecture. The iconic building was designed by Frank Gehry. During a guided tour you can taste the famous wines and take a look inside the building.
- Baigorri winery (Samaniego Hotels *): This modern winery is characterized by its unique, underground design, which allows for harmonious integration into the landscape, combined with sustainability and modern winemaking methods. By prior arrangement, there is the option of a culinary wine tasting in the in-house restaurant. For us, this was a highlight of the visit.
If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.
Culinary experiences in Rioja Alavesa
- Restaurante Ariño (Labastida): If you fancy a really rustic country inn, then this is the place for you. No frills - just great grilled food.
- Héctor Oribe (Paganos): This restaurant offers a modern interpretation of Basque cuisine. Here you can enjoy creative dishes.
- Asador Villa-Lucía (Laguardia): The villa also has a small museum and a traditional asador (grill) restaurant. In the rustic atmosphere you can enjoy down-to-earth local cuisine with local ingredients.
Other attractions in Rioja Alavesa
- Laguardia:This medieval town, surrounded by vineyards, is known for its well-preserved city walls and underground wine cellars. A highlight is a visit to the church of Santa María de los Reyes, whose impressive Gothic portal reflects the history and art of the region.
- Elciego:Elciego is a charming village, especially famous for the spectacular architecture of Marqués de Riscal.
- San Vicente de la Sonsierra: This picturesque village is known for its medieval fortress. From the castle you have breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The discovery route through Rioja Oriental
Overview of the route
- Starting point: Alfaro
- End point: Villamediana de Iregua
- Length: About. 90 km
- Recommended travel time: Approximately 2 days
Special wineries and tastings on the Rioja Oriental wine tour
- Bodegas Ontanon (Source): This family-run and traditional winery combines winemaking with art. On a tour of the winery, you can not only see the wine cellars, but also the art. A little hint - they like to call themselves “El Templo del Vino”.
- Bodegas Palacios Remondo (Alfa Hotels *): Palacios Remondo is another winery with a long history. The team places great emphasis on growing Tempranillo and Garnacha, which can be tasted during guided tours of the vineyards and cellars.
If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.
Culinary experiences in Rioja Oriental
- Morro tango (Alfaro): Local cuisine with seasonal dishes, some of which come straight from the in-house vegetable garden. And where does the name come from? A person who only likes good things is often called “Morro Tango” in the region.
- Coliseum 29 (Calahorra): This modern restaurant specializes in regional cuisine. If you're lucky, you may even have the opportunity to take part in a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.
- Restaurante La Moncloa (Villamediana de Iregua): A passionate couple founded the restaurant in 2000. They offer various menus and grilled dishes. Of course, they also offer matching wines.
Other attractions in Rioja Oriental
- Cueva de los Cien Pilares (Arnedo): The Caves of the 100 Columns are located in Arnedo and are a unique complex of caves and rock architecture that is also part of the Route of Prehistoric Rock Art (CARP).
- Ciguenas Viewpoint: From February to July, you can observe these animals on the roof of the Collegiate Church of San Miguel Arcángel in Alfaro, also known as the “Cathedral of the Storks”. The roof is full of nests, as the birds have chosen this place to breed and raise their young.
- San Esteban de Viguera: Near the town of Viguera you can explore a small rectangular temple with a very eventful history, which probably contains the most valuable Romanesque paintings in all of La Rioja.
Your wine journey to Rioja starts here
We hope that this article has made you want to take a trip to what is probably the most famous wine-growing region in Spain. Our tour suggestions offer you a first insight into the diversity of Rioja. Because no matter which of the three tours or combinations of them you choose - there is SO MUCH MORE to discover.
… and if you’ve now got a taste for it, you can find even more information about Spain, Spanish wine and wine tourism on our website www.TodoVino.com.
We look forward to seeing you and wish you
Bon voyage!
All tips have been compiled by us to the best of our knowledge, but we recommend that you check the information again on site.
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Source Wine Tour Rioja: Guest article by todovino. We would like to thank you very much for this.
Text wine tour Rioja: todovino
Photos wine tour Rioja: todovino
