Private Rioja Wine Tour: Premium Wineries From Bilbao With Lunch

Exploring the renowned Rioja region, renowned for its captivating wines, is a dream for many oenophiles. With a private wine tour departing from Bilbao, visitors can enjoy the exquisite flavors of this celebrated Spanish wine country. Venturing to two premium wineries, guests will savor the nuances of Rioja’s finest vintages, complemented by local delicacies. But the journey doesn’t end there – a traditional lunch in the charming medieval village of LaGuardia promises to elevate the cultural experience, making this tour a must-explore for both wine enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike. The stage is set for an unforgettable day, and the possibilities for discovery are endless.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Wine Tours In Bilbao.

Key Points

• Private guided tour from Bilbao to the renowned Rioja wine region, visiting two premier wineries and enjoying a traditional lunch in the medieval village of LaGuardia.

• Comprehensive winery experiences, including wine tastings paired with local olive oil and cheese, as well as insights into the region’s unique grape varieties and winemaking processes.

• Scenic 1 hour and 45 minute drive between Bilbao and the Rioja wine region, providing an opportunity to admire the picturesque landscapes.

• Complimentary air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup, ensuring a comfortable and convenient tour experience.

• Highly rated tour with positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guide, quality of wineries, and enjoyable tasting and culinary experiences.

Tour Overview

Departing from Bilbao, this private Rioja wine tour allows guests to explore two premier wineries in the renowned Rioja region.

Over the course of the day, travelers will discover the winemaking processes and grape varieties that define this celebrated wine appellation.

The tour also includes a traditional lunch in the medieval village of LaGuardia, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Travelers can expect a scenic drive of 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the heart of the Rioja wine country.

This immersive wine tour offers a perfect blend of educational and culinary delights for any oenophile.

Itinerary

The private Rioja wine tour begins with the first winery visit at San Vicente de la Sonsierra. Here, visitors will learn about the acclaimed Rioja wines and the winemaking process. The tour includes a wine tasting accompanied by local olive oil and cheese, lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Admission to this first winery is free of charge.

Winery	Location	Duration	Admission
San Vicente de la Sonsierra	First	1 hour 30 minutes	Free
Bodegas Luis Cañas	Second	1 hour 30 minutes	Included

The second winery visit is at Bodegas Luis Cañas, where guests will tour the facility and sample an interesting selection of wines over 1 hour and 30 minutes. Admission to this winery is included in the tour price.

San Vicente De La Sonsierra

The first stop on the private Rioja wine tour is the winery in San Vicente de la Sonsierra.

Here, guests will learn about Rioja wines and the winemaking process. The visit lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and includes a wine tasting paired with local olive oil and cheese.

Travelers will discover the unique grape varieties that thrive in this renowned wine region. The knowledgeable guide provides insights into the history and traditions behind Rioja’s acclaimed vintages.

This opening experience sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the Rioja wine culture and the exceptional quality found at the region’s premier estates.

Bodegas Luis Cañas

After exploring the first winery, the tour continues to Bodegas Luis Cañas.

This second stop provides a unique opportunity to walk through the winery and tasting area. Visitors can sample an interesting selection of wines, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s viticulture.

The knowledgeable guide shares insights into the winemaking process and the distinct grape varieties used. The tour at Bodegas Luis Cañas lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the winery’s rich history and modern techniques.

This comprehensive experience complements the earlier visit, offering a well-rounded understanding of Rioja’s renowned wine culture.

Transportation and Amenities

Private transportation with pickup from any hotel is provided for the tour.

The tour starts and finishes at the traveler’s accommodation, ensuring a seamless experience.

The air-conditioned vehicle is equipped with WiFi, allowing passengers to stay connected during the journey.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

These amenities and transportation options ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for the participants, allowing them to focus on the wine tasting and exploration of the Rioja region.

Pricing and Booking

This tour is operated by AZUL TOURS Bilbao, and the price starts at $358.15 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour includes private transportation with pickup from any hotel in the Bilbao area, and the experience starts and finishes at the traveler’s accommodation.

The air-conditioned vehicle is equipped with WiFi, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and strollers are permitted.

Reviews and Feedback

The tour boasts an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 8 reviews.

Travelers praise the tour’s knowledgeable and personable guide, Matteo, who demonstrates expertise on Rioja wines and winemaking. Guests appreciate the scenic drive and quality of the two premier wineries visited.

They highlight the enjoyable tasting experiences, which include local olive oil and cheese pairings. The traditional lunch in the medieval village of LaGuardia is also a highlight.

Explore Rioja Wines

Two premier wineries in the renowned Rioja region await visitors on this private tour.

At the first winery, guests will learn about the winemaking process and taste Rioja’s distinctive grape varieties.

The second winery, Bodegas Luis Cañas, offers a walk-through of the production facilities and a sampling of their finest wines.

Throughout the experience, travelers will discover the nuances that make Rioja wines so acclaimed.

With a knowledgeable guide to provide insights, this tour offers an immersive exploration of Spain’s celebrated wine country, complemented by a traditional lunch in the medieval village of LaGuardia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. It’s important to check with the tour operator about any specific policies or restrictions for children.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour allows for some customization of the itinerary. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and they’ll do their best to accommodate any special requests or modify the schedule within reason.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

While there are no directly advertised discounts, AZUL TOURS Bilbao may offer promotions or group discounts depending on the party size. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about any available specials or savings.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Unfortunately, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. The tour includes a traditional lunch in Laguardia, so outside food and beverages are not permitted. The focus is on the winery experiences and included meals.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Casual attire is generally suitable, as the focus is on the wine tasting and learning experience.

Recap

The Private Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s premium wineries and local culinary delights. Visitors can savor the flavors of Rioja through guided tastings, a traditional lunch, and a scenic drive, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike. This tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the Rioja region’s rich winemaking heritage and cultural traditions.