A visit to Solar de Samaniego in Laguardia offers more than just wine tasting — it’s a full sensory journey through one of the Basque Country’s most captivating wineries. Priced at around $75.59 per person for roughly three hours, this tour combines a guided walk through the historic winery, tasting of three wines, and a delicious traditional meal with spectacular vineyard views.
What we love most? The artistic reinterpretation of the winery’s architecture — especially Guido van Helten’s monumental murals — and the well-curated tasting process that lets you appreciate each wine alongside literary and artistic elements. The personalized guide, Marta, highlights the winery’s unique blend of history, art, and wine craftsmanship.
A small consideration? The dinner is served in a chill, indoor setting, which in winter or on a cool day might feel a little colder than ideal.
This experience is perfect for wine lovers curious about the cultural side of Rioja, history buffs, or travelers who appreciate artistic spaces and authentic local cuisine. It’s particularly suited to those who value a well-rounded, immersive experience rather than just a quick wine tasting.
Key Points
- Unique Artistic Environment: The winery’s spaces feature murals and installations by renowned artists, transforming industrial architecture into a visual feast.
- In-Depth Experience: The tour covers winemaking, art, and literature, making it ideal for those interested in more than just tasting wine.
- Quality Tasting: Three wines are sampled during the visit, with explanations that help you understand their nuances.
- Local Gourmet Meal: The traditional menu paired with winery Crianza enhances the experience, showcasing regional flavors.
- Engaging Guides: Marta and other guides are praised for their friendly, informative explanations that make the experience accessible.
- Limited Group Size: Max 25 travelers ensures a more personal touch during the visit.
The Complete Winery Experience at Solar de Samaniego
When you think about a winery tour, you might picture a quick walk through barrels followed by a tasting. While that’s part of what Solar de Samaniego offers, this experience goes much further — blending history, art, and gastronomy into a compact three-hour adventure.
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Location and Setting
Located in Laguardia, a charming town in the Basque Country’s Rioja Alavesa, Solar de Samaniego has been making wine since 1968. The winery’s roots stretch back to the 18th century, owned by the literary figure Félix María de Samaniego. That literary spirit infuses the entire space, with nods to reading, writing, and storytelling woven into the winery’s design.
The winery’s architecture and interior spaces are a highlight. The old warehouses have been reimagined by interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, who created spaces that are both functional and inspiring. The artistic murals by Guido van Helten add a contemporary, monumental feel — transforming the old industrial buildings into works of art.
What the Tour Covers
The itinerary is designed to give a full picture of what makes Solar de Samaniego special. You start at the meeting point in Elciego, where a guide (most often Marta) greets you warmly. The first part of the tour takes you through the winemaking process, with explanations about the different stages of production.
You’ll visit spaces like the reading room and library, where literature and wine mingle. The literary and art-inspired spaces are a delight, designed to evoke reflection and appreciation for the winery’s cultural ties. This focus on artistic reinterpretation makes the experience feel unique compared to more traditional winery tours.
The highlight for many is the monumental mural by Guido van Helten in the old warehouses — impressive, large-scale murals that turn industrial tanks into outdoor galleries. Many reviews mention the “spectacular paintings” and “photogenic deposits” that make great photo stops.
Tasting and Food
After exploring the spaces, the group moves to a dedicated tasting room where three different wines are sampled. The guide explains the characteristics of each, helpfully pointing out what to notice in terms of aroma, flavor, and how they pair with regional foods.
The tour concludes in dining rooms overlooking the vineyard, where a traditional Rioja-style menu is served. The meal includes starters, Riojan potatoes, lamb chops with vine shoots, and a dessert paired with Solar de Samaniego’s Crianza wine.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the food and the pairing — one reviewer called it an “excellent dinner,” while others noted how well the wines complemented each dish.
The Personal Touch
Throughout the experience, guides like Marta receive high marks for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep things engaging. The small group size (max 25 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing you to ask questions and get detailed answers.
Practical Details
- Duration: About 3 hours, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule.
- Price: $75.59 per person, which includes the tour, tastings, and meal.
- Timing: The tour starts at 1:00 pm, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
- Booking: On average booked 32 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.
- Accessibility: The tour is designed for most travelers, with reviews mentioning the friendly, approachable guide.
What We Love About This Tour
The blend of art and wine really sets Solar de Samaniego apart. The murals and interior design turn what could be a typical winery visit into a visual and cultural experience. Walking through spaces that look more like galleries than warehouses makes each moment memorable.
We also appreciated the quality of the tasting — it isn’t just about sipping wine but understanding what makes each one special. The fact that tastings happen during the walk rather than at the end means you stay engaged and can compare wines side-by-side.
Plus, the local, hearty meal paired with the wines offers a taste of Rioja’s culinary traditions, elevating the visit from a simple tasting to an authentic gastronomic experience.
Possible Drawbacks to Consider
One thing to keep in mind is the indoor dining space — if you’re visiting in winter or on a cold day, you might find the temperature a bit chilly during the meal. Also, since the tour emphasizes art and architecture, those primarily interested in just wine production details might find it slightly less technical.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts who love a cultural twist, travelers interested in art and architecture, and those who appreciate authentic regional cuisine. It’s especially suitable if you want a more personal, less rushed visit with a knowledgeable guide.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part of the experience without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
The tour, three wine tastings, and a traditional Rioja meal served in a scenic dining room.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 32 days ahead, so planning ahead helps secure your preferred date.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s mainly designed for adults interested in wine, art, and food.
What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Bodegas Solar de Samaniego, Elciego, with the meeting point clearly specified.
Are the wines local?
Yes, the wines are from Solar de Samaniego itself, including their Crianza, which is paired with the meal.
What kind of food is served?
A traditional Rioja-style menu with starters, potatoes, lamb chops, dessert, and coffee.
Are the spaces accessible?
While specific accessibility features aren’t detailed, the tour is designed for most travelers, with small group sizes ensuring personalized attention.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility to adapt your trip.
Final Thoughts
A guided tour of Solar de Samaniego offers more than just wine — it’s a layered experience of art, history, and regional gastronomy. The combination of beautiful murals, well-explained tastings, and a hearty meal makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation of Rioja beyond the basics.
The small group setting and friendly guides ensure a personal, engaging experience that feels both educational and enjoyable. Ideal for those who seek a meaningful connection to the place — its stories, its art, and its flavors.
If you’re after a memorable, culture-rich wine day that balances learning with leisure, this tour at Solar de Samaniego is a smart pick. It’s a chance to savor quality wines, admire striking art, and taste authentic regional dishes all in one well-rounded visit.