Logroño: Guided Visit With Tasting of 3 Wines and Aperitif at Viña Ijalba.

Enjoy the essence of Rioja with a guided visit to Viña Ijalba, an organic winery renowned for its sustainable viticulture. This 75-minute tour showcases the unique terroir and minority grape varieties, offering an insider’s look at the winery’s innovative techniques. From the vineyard to the barrel room, discover the secrets behind Rioja’s qualified designation of origin. Then, savor three exquisite organic wines paired with local delicacies, revealing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey that’ll leave you craving for more.

Key Points

• Guided tour and tasting experience at Viña Ijalba, an organic winery in Rioja, featuring minority grape varieties and sustainable winemaking practices.
• Explore the natural museum showcasing the history and importance of native Rioja grape varieties like Maturana Tinta, Tempranillo Blanco, and Graciano.
• Visit the winery’s vineyards, fermentation tanks, and barrel room to learn about the winemaking process and Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin.
• Taste three organic Viña Ijalba wines paired with a local cheese and sausage appetizer, enhancing the understanding of Rioja’s terroir and culinary heritage.
• The tour is available in Spanish and English with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Logroño Wine Tasting Tour offers a guided visit to Viña Ijalba, a pioneering organic winery in the Rioja region.

The 75-minute experience includes a 45-minute tour and a 30-minute tasting. Visitors can explore the winery’s natural museum of native grape varieties, visit the vineyards, fermentation tanks, and barrel room, and learn about Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin.

The tour culminates in a tasting of three organic wines paired with a local cheese and sausage appetizer. The tour is available in Spanish and English, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

Winery Background

Viña Ijalba, the winery featured in the Logroño Wine Tasting Tour, is a pioneer in organic winemaking within the Rioja region. Founded by Dionisio Ruiz Ijalba, the winery focuses on minority grape varieties and environmentally friendly techniques.

As one of the first wineries to embrace organic practices in the region, Viña Ijalba has paved the way for sustainable viticulture in Rioja. Visitors can expect to learn about the winery’s unique approach to winemaking and its commitment to preserving the local terroir during the guided tour.

Exploring the Natural Museum of Native Varieties

As visitors explore the winery, they’ll be introduced to the natural museum of native grape varieties showcased at Viña Ijalba. This unique exhibit highlights the diverse grape plantings that contribute to the winery’s focus on minority varietals. Guests will learn about the history and importance of these local grapes, which are integral to Rioja’s rich winemaking heritage.

| Grape Variety | Key Characteristics | Typical Wines |

| — | — | — |

| Maturana Tinta | Bold, intense color; high tannins | Oaked red blends |

| Tempranillo Blanco | Delicate, floral aromas; crisp acidity | Fresh white wines |

| Graciano | Spicy, peppery notes; excellent aging potential | Concentrated red wines |

This educational experience provides a deeper understanding of Viña Ijalba’s commitment to preserving Rioja’s viticultural diversity.

Visiting the Vineyard, Fermentation Tanks, and Barrel Room

After exploring the natural museum of native grape varieties, visitors will venture out to the vineyards, fermentation tanks, and barrel room at Viña Ijalba.

This part of the tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process:

• Discover the vineyards and learn about the winery’s focus on minority grape varieties.

• Observe the fermentation tanks and understand the importance of temperature control.

• Explore the barrel room and learn how aging in oak barrels contributes to the wine’s complexity.

• Understand Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin and how it shapes the winery’s practices.

• Gain insights into the environmentally friendly techniques used at Viña Ijalba.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Learning About Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin and Winery Peculiarities

During the tour, visitors will gain valuable insights into Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin and how it shapes the winery’s practices. They’ll learn about the unique terroir, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques that define Rioja wines. The tour guide will explain the rigorous standards and regulations that wineries like Viña Ijalba must adhere to in order to earn this prestigious appellation.

| Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin |

| — | — | — |

| Terroir | Grape Varieties | Winemaking Techniques |

| Unique microclimate | Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano | Traditional barrel aging |

| Calcareous-clay soils | Minority grapes like Maturana | Organic, sustainable practices |

Tasting of Three Organic Wines and Km0 Appetizer

Following the informative overview of Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin, visitors then embark on the wine tasting portion of the tour.

Guests will sample three organic wines, each paired with a locally-sourced "km0" appetizer, such as regional cheese and sausage.

Savor the pairing of three organic wines with locally-sourced delicacies, showcasing Rioja’s vibrant gastronomic heritage.

The tasting allows guests to:

• Discover the distinct flavors of Rioja’s minority grape varieties

• Appreciate the winery’s focus on environmentally-friendly techniques

• Savor the pairing of organic wines with hyperlocal gastronomic delights

• Enhance their understanding of Rioja’s terroir and winemaking traditions

• Bring home a deeper appreciation for the region’s wine and culinary heritage.

Additional Offerings at the Wine Bar

Along With the wine tasting, visitors to the Viña Ijalba winery can browse and purchase a selection of wine accessories at the on-site wine bar.

Those looking to take home a memento can choose from wine glasses, corkscrews, and other useful items. Guests can also buy extra bottles of the organic wines tasted during the tour, allowing them to continue their Rioja experience.

The wine bar offers a convenient opportunity for visitors to extend their winery experience and stock up on essentials for future wine enjoyment.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with baby strollers.

Important Logistical Information

The meeting point for the Logroño Wine Tasting Tour is the reception and shop of the Viña Ijalba winery.

Visitors should ring the bell if the gate is closed. Punctuality is crucial – more than 15 minutes late will result in automatic cancellation without a refund.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or baby strollers. The tour has received a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.

Key logistical details:

• Meeting point: Viña Ijalba winery reception/shop

• Ring bell if gate is closed

• Punctuality is essential – no-show after 15 minutes

• Not wheelchair or stroller accessible

• Overall rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)

FAQ

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate in the Tour?

The website does not specify a minimum age requirement for the tour. However, as it includes a wine tasting, participants must be of legal drinking age in the local jurisdiction to fully participate.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?

The tour can accommodate vegetarians and those with gluten intolerances. Visitors should inform the winery in advance of any dietary requirements so they can provide suitable alternatives for the wine tasting and appetizer.

Can We Purchase Additional Bottles of Wine After the Tasting?

Yes, extra glasses and bottles of wine can be purchased in the on-site wine bar after the tasting. Wine accessories like corkscrews are also available for sale.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Visitors are welcome to take photos throughout the winery’s facilities and vineyards to capture their experience, though they should avoid disrupting the guide or other tour participants.

Is There a Dress Code or Attire Requirement for the Visit?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, casual attire. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for the winery tour. The focus is on the wine experience, not formal attire.

Sum Up

Enjoy the essence of Rioja with a guided visit to Viña Ijalba, an organic winery committed to sustainable viticulture. Explore the vineyard, fermentation tanks, and barrel room, then savor three exquisite organic wines paired with local delicacies. This immersive experience showcases the unique terroir and minority grape varieties, as well as the winery’s innovative winemaking techniques. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the heart of Rioja.

You can check if your dates are available here: