Premium Wine Tour of Rioja With Gourmet Lunch (From Bilbao)

For wine enthusiasts seeking a truly exceptional and immersive Rioja experience, this premium tour offers an unparalleled opportunity. Guests will indulge in a curated selection of top-rated wines, savor a gourmet Riojano lunch, and explore the picturesque vineyards and medieval towns that define this renowned Spanish wine region. With visits to boutique wineries earning consistent critical acclaim, this tour promises to elevate one’s appreciation for the art and tradition of Rioja winemaking. What makes this experience truly remarkable, however, goes beyond the exceptional wines and cuisine…

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Lunch Experiences In Bilbao.

Key Points

• Immersive 9-hour private wine tour experience featuring visits to two acclaimed boutique wineries in Rioja with 90+ Parker point ratings.
• Curated tasting of top-rated Rioja wines, including 4-5 exceptional vintages at each winery, providing insights into the region’s unique terroir and winemaking.
• Gourmet Riojano lunch with a multi-course tasting menu showcasing traditional cuisine and expert pairing of the region’s acclaimed wines.
• Panoramic views of the Cantabrian mountain range and picturesque vineyards, along with an exploration of the well-preserved medieval town of LaGuardia.
• Flexible cancellation policy for guest convenience, ensuring a luxurious and hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This premium wine tour of Rioja from Bilbao offers guests a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Spanish winemaking region.

Lasting approximately 9 hours, the private group experience includes hotel pickup, visits to two acclaimed boutique wineries with top-rated Rioja wines, and a gourmet Riojano lunch with a tasting menu.

Highlights include the opportunity to taste a selection of premium Rioja wines, capture photos of picturesque vineyards and mountains, and explore the medieval city of LaGuardia.

The tour is designed to provide an immersive and luxurious experience, with a private guide, thoughtful inclusions, and a flexible cancellation policy for guest convenience.

Rioja Wine Tasting

The tour treats guests to a curated selection of top-rated Rioja wines, with visits to two premier boutique wineries that consistently earn 90+ Parker points. At each winery, knowledgeable guides lead participants through tastings of at least 4-5 exceptional wines, providing insights into the region’s unique terroir and winemaking practices. The tasting experience allows visitors to savor the complexity and diversity of Rioja’s renowned vintages, from bold reds to crisp whites and elegant rosés. Guests depart with a deeper appreciation for the art of Rioja winemaking and the ability to discern the hallmarks of quality in these world-class libations.

Winery 1	Winery 2
2018 Tempranillo	2017 Graciano
2020 Garnacha	2019 Viura
2019 Rioja Reserva	2018 Rioja Crianza
2016 Rioja Gran Reserva	2015 Rioja Gran Reserva
Exclusive Barrel Sample	Exclusive Barrel Sample

Premium Boutique Wineries

Guests on the premium wine tour of Rioja will visit two renowned boutique wineries that consistently earn 90+ Parker points, delving into the region’s rich winemaking heritage and sampling its finest offerings.

These small-scale, family-owned operations showcase the passion and expertise that have made Rioja a world-class wine destination. Visitors will have the chance to tour the vineyards, learn about the unique terroir, and witness the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.

Whether it’s a bold, full-bodied red or a delicate, aromatic white, the wines from these premium boutique wineries are sure to delight the palate and leave a lasting impression on guests.

Gourmet Riojano Lunch

After savoring the premium wines from the boutique wineries, guests can look forward to an indulgent gourmet Riojano lunch that complements the regional flavors.

The multi-course tasting menu showcases the best of traditional Rioja cuisine, prepared with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients and expertly paired with more of the region’s acclaimed vintages.

Guests can expect dishes like succulent roasted lamb, hearty stews, and decadent Rioja-infused desserts, all served in a picturesque setting that immerses them in the heart of the wine country.

This gourmet experience provides a delightful and harmonious pairing of the area’s renowned wine and culinary traditions, ensuring a truly memorable day for discerning palates.

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Picturesque Vineyards and Mountains

Amid the rolling hills and majestic mountains of Rioja, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the region’s picturesque vineyards. Neatly-tended rows of vibrant grapevines stretch out as far as the eye can see, providing a stunning natural backdrop for the boutique wineries they tour.

Towering peaks and lush forests frame the verdant landscapes, creating a breathtaking tableau that exemplifies the unspoiled beauty of northern Spain’s premier wine country.

Some of the highlights of the region include:

• Panoramic views of the Cantabrian mountain range
• Verdant valleys dotted with historic villages
• Winding roads that offer photo-worthy vistas
• Ancient oak and pine forests that border the vineyards
• Charming country roads lined with traditional stone walls

Exploring Medieval LaGuardia

As part of the premium wine tour, visitors explore the medieval town of LaGuardia, a well-preserved gem nestled within the Rioja region.

Wandering through its winding cobblestone streets, they discover a wealth of historical charm, from the impressive 13th-century walls that encircle the old town to the striking Gothic architecture of landmarks like the Church of Santa María de los Reyes.

The town’s strategic location atop a hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains.

Visitors can also browse the quaint shops and galleries, sample local delicacies, and learn about the town’s rich history and cultural traditions, providing a delightful counterpoint to the wine tastings and gourmet lunch earlier in the day.

Inclusions and Amenities

The premium wine tour package includes a range of amenities that enhance the overall experience for visitors. These include:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• A private guide to lead the tour
• Visits to two premium wineries with tastings of a minimum of nine wines
• A tour of the medieval village of LaGuardia
• A gourmet Riojano lunch with a tasting menu

The tour also features:

• Visits to wineries with 90+ Parker points
• Capture photos of the stunning Rioja vineyards and mountains
• Gratuities for guides included
• Option to upgrade to a Michelin-starred restaurant for lunch
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Booking and Cancellation

To book the premium wine tour, travelers can conveniently reserve their spot online or by contacting the tour operator directly.

The tour features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing participants to receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

This gives guests the freedom to adjust their plans if needed without incurring any penalties. The tour operator understands that plans can change, and they aim to provide a hassle-free booking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is primarily focused on wine tasting and may not be suitable for children. However, the tour provider can accommodate families and make arrangements for alternative activities for children if requested in advance.

Can We Customize the Tour to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit guests’ preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to modify the itinerary, such as adjusting the number of wineries visited or the choice of lunch location, within the overall tour duration and inclusions.

What if We Have Any Dietary Restrictions?

The tour operator is accommodating of dietary restrictions. They’ll work with your to ensure the gourmet lunch menu caters to any special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request a longer tour that explores additional wineries or includes more time in the medieval village. Additional fees may apply for an extended tour.

How Can We Pay for the Tour?

The tour can be paid for in a few ways. Customers can pay upfront with a credit or debit card at the time of booking. They can also pay in cash upon arrival. Some providers may offer the option to pay a deposit upfront with the remaining balance due on the day of the tour.

Recap

This premium wine tour of Rioja offers an immersive experience, featuring visits to top-rated boutique wineries, a gourmet Riojano lunch, and the chance to explore picturesque vineyards, mountains, and the medieval town of LaGuardia.

Guests can expect a curated selection of exceptional Rioja wines, panoramic views, and a luxurious experience that showcases the region’s renowned wine and cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here: