San Sebastian: Full Day Private Rioja Wine Tasting Adventure Including 3-course lunch

Many countries have their own wine regions, but few have the reputation that Rioja has achieved. Famous worldwide, the Basque Country plays an important role in the production of these much-loved wines, which you’ll learn all about on this full-day tour tailor-made for wine lovers.

Your day starts with a two-hour trip to the geographical border of Rioja. If the weather allows, we’ll be able to enjoy an amazing panorama of this wine region from the viewpoint of Balcón de la Rioja. The trip will also be an opportunity to learn how the Basque region is divided and how Basques truly perceive it. 

Next, we’ll visit a famous winery located in the hills and meadows of Álava where the contrast of colours and the immensity of its vines will impress you. We’ll also explore the seven underground floors of the wine cellar, and learn about the Spanish methods for savouring and classifying red wines. 

Following our first winery stop, we’ll have lunch in Laguardia, where tradition meets history. This historic walled town will make you feel as if you’ve travelled back to medieval times with its impressive churches and quaint, narrow streets. This will be the perfect opportunity to try a traditional meal in an idyllic place while learning about the town’s past. 

After lunch, it’s time to visit a second wine cellar, this one run by small producers who are experts in carbonic maceration, a different way of producing wine. You’ll learn about this unique winemaking technique and how it compares to the way wines were traditionally produced in Rioja. 

Finally, we’ll see some famous wineries like Marques de Riscal or Ysios to get a sense of their astonishing architecture in the vast lands of Álava. This is where prehistoric remains are easy to find, and we’ll visit what we call the “Witch’s Hut,” a megalithic dolmen around 5,000 years old! 

You might also have a chance to buy cheese directly from a local producer if they’re open before the tour ends. Then you’ll head back to the city with a new appreciation for Rioja wine. 

This tour is priced for a minimum group size of two travellers. A solo traveller may still book this private experience but will be charged the base rate for two travellers.

Please note: if any of our favourite wineries are closed we will exchange it for another one.