Tapas in the vineyards

Tapas in the vineyards: An authentic wine and food experience near Valencia

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Valencia’s city streets and instead spend a day immersed in the tranquil beauty of Utiel-Requena’s vineyards, this 7-hour tour offers a wonderful blend of wine, food, and culture. For around $174.46 per person, you’ll visit two local wineries, learn about the wine-making process, and finish with a memorable tapas and wine lunch at a family-owned winery. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone wanting to see a different side of Spain’s wine country.

What we really love about this tour is its balance of education and indulgence—we get to see how wine is made, taste some excellent bottles, and then settle into a cozy setting for local tapas paired expertly with wine. The personal touch provided by the guides makes it feel intimate and genuine. However, a potential consideration is the duration and timing—it’s a full day, so be prepared for a relaxed pace. This tour suits travelers who appreciate quality, authenticity, and a touch of local family charm.

Key Points

• Authentic experience visiting two wineries in the Utiel-Requena region.
• Educational visits explaining the wine-making process in English.
• Delicious tapas and dessert served at a family-run winery, paired with local wines.
• Personalized guide service ensuring a friendly, engaging day.
• Relaxed pace of 7 hours, including transportation, tastings, and meal.
• Ideal for wine and food lovers seeking an authentic, intimate experience.

A Well-Curated Journey into Valencia’s Vineyards

This tour kicks off at a convenient meeting point in Burjassot, just outside Valencia, at 9:30 am. From there, a comfortable transport takes you an hour into the Utiel-Requena wine region, known for its distinctive wines and scenic vineyards. The visit includes two wineries where you’ll learn about the entire wine-making process—from grape to glass—and taste their offerings in a relaxed setting. The guides’ fluency in English ensures you’ll understand each step, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just curious.

Visiting the Wineries: Deepening Your Appreciation for Spanish Wine

The first stop usually involves exploring the wine production areas, which might include old cellars or caves used historically for storing wine. One reviewer noted, “We saw old caves used for wine making process in earlier times,” which hints at the authentic and historic atmosphere you can expect. You’ll sample 3 or 4 different wines at each winery, getting a sense of regional varieties and craftsmanship. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with Melanie sharing, “I was very impressed with her knowledge of the region and the wine-making process.”

These visits are more than just tastings—they’re stories about tradition, land, and craftsmanship. The English-guided tours make it easy to follow along, especially for visitors from outside Spain. Plus, the chance to explore old caves and cellars adds a layer of historical intrigue that enhances the experience.

The Highlight: Tapas and Wine at Vera de Estenas

After the winery visits, the tour heads to the Vera de Estenas family winery. Here, you’re welcomed into a warm, intimate environment crafted for your group. The best part? You get to choose 5 tapas for everyone in your booking, along with a dessert, all accompanied by a bottle of wine for every two people. Water, bread, and coffee are included, making this a hearty and authentic lunch.

Guests frequently mention how special this part of the tour is. Pattie describes it as “so special,” noting that she was able to customize her food choices and appreciated the gluten-free options for her husband. The setting offers a relaxed, convivial atmosphere—a true taste of local life, away from touristy spots.

Authentic Food and Wine Pairings

The tapas selection is varied, allowing you to enjoy local flavors in a cozy environment. The wine pairing is well thought out, with many reviews remarking on the quality of the wines served. One traveler said, “The wine selections were fantastic, and the tapas were great,” which indicates the emphasis on authentic, well-curated cuisine.

The dessert adds a sweet note to finish the meal, and the inclusion of coffee makes it feel like a proper, satisfying conclusion to a day of tasting and discovery. Many reviews praise the personalized attention and the delicious food, highlighting it as a memorable part of the experience.

Practical Details: What to Expect on the Tour

The day starts early, with pick-up at 9:30 am in Burjassot, and wraps up back at the original meeting point around 4:30 pm. This gives you a full day of immersive experiences without feeling rushed. The transportation is private, ensuring your group can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll visit two wineries, spending approximately two hours exploring and tasting at each. This allows enough time to appreciate the production process, ask questions, and savor the wines. The visits are scheduled in English, and guides are praised for their friendly and informative approach.

Later, at Vera de Estenas, you’ll spend around three hours enjoying the lunch. The menu is flexible—you select your tapas from a variety of options, making it suitable for different dietary needs. The wine included is enough for everyone to sample and compare, leaving you with a good sense of regional varietals.

Accessibility and Booking

Most travelers can participate, and the tour is booked on average 62 days in advance, indicating good popularity. The price point of $174.46 reflects a comprehensive experience—covering transportation, guided visits, tastings, and a full meal—making it a good value for a full day of authentic activity.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guide Elise, with comments like “Elise was a wonderful guide” and “she made us feel welcome.” They also emphasize the quality of the wine, with some mentioning “seven different wines” tasted during the day, and the delicious tapas that complemented the drinks.

One guest summed it up: “This day trip was more fun than expected,” and another called it “a relaxing day away from city sightseeing,” which underscores how well this experience balances education, fun, and relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local traditions, savoring authentic Spanish wines, and indulging in delicious regional tapas, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for foodies and wine lovers who want more than just tasting—it’s about understanding and experiencing the land, the people, and the flavors behind the wines.

Travelers who appreciate personalized guides and a relaxed, intimate setting will find this tour particularly rewarding. The balance of educational visits and culinary delights makes it a memorable way to spend a day outside Valencia, especially if you’re keen to explore less commercialized, family-run wineries.

While the full day might be long for someone with limited time or energy, most reviews agree that the quality of the experience more than compensates. It’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Spain’s wine culture, combined with the enjoyment of authentic local cuisine.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including visits to two wineries, transport, and a meal at Vera de Estenas.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at EmpalmePobles del Nord, 46100 Burjassot, Valencia, and returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, all winery visits are conducted in English, making the experience accessible for English-speaking travelers.

How many wineries are visited?
Two wineries are visited, each offering tastings and insights into their production processes.

What is included in the meal?
You choose five tapas for your group, and the meal includes a dessert, bread, water, and coffee. A bottle of wine is provided for every two people.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, reviews mention that gluten-free options were acknowledged and accommodated, especially for special occasions like anniversaries.

Is this experience private or group-based?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just curious about Spain’s wine culture, this Tapas in the vineyards tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Valencia’s wine country—complete with stories, flavors, and friendly guides to make your day truly memorable.