A Sip-By-Sip Tour of 3 Boutique Rioja Family Wineries (Private Tour with Lunch)

A Sip-By-Sip Tour of 3 Boutique Rioja Family Wineries (Private Tour with Lunch)

Imagine a day spent wandering through some of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions, tasting exceptional wines, and soaking in historic towns and scenic views. This private Rioja wine tour from Bilbao offers exactly that. For about $474 per person, you’ll spend roughly eight hours exploring three carefully selected family-owned wineries, each with its own style and story. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll experience the intimacy of boutique wineries, learn about traditional production methods, and taste wines that have earned high scores from top critics.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the flexibility to customize your day with your guide and the opportunity to indulge freely in tastings because transportation is provided. Plus, the visit to Laguardia, with its medieval walls and underground cellars, offers a charming glimpse into local history.

A possible consideration is that the tour might be quite full, especially during peak booking periods, so planning ahead is essential. Also, the focus on wine tasting means it’s best suited for those who enjoy sampling and learning about wine, but it’s flexible enough for newcomers to Rioja to develop a genuine appreciation.

If you’re a lover of wine, history, and scenic landscapes, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive, authentic Rioja experience without the hassle of self-driving — perfect for those who want to relax and focus on the tasting and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You can tailor the experience to your interests with expert guidance.
• Multiple wineries: Visit three boutique family-run wineries, each offering unique styles and stories.
• High-quality wines: Tasting wines with 90+ points from critics like James Suckling and Tim Atkin.
• Historic towns and scenic views: Explore Laguardia’s medieval streets and underground cellars, plus stunning mountain vistas.
• Gourmet lunch included: Enjoy a relaxing meal paired with local wines, adding to the authentic experience.
• Comfort and convenience: Round-trip transfers from Bilbao eliminate stress and allow unlimited tastings.

An In-Depth Look at the Rioja Private Winery Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins at 9:00 am in Bilbao, with convenient pickup and round-trip transportation included, which makes the day effortless. The first stop is Haro, known for its Rioja Alta wines. We loved the way this region boasts the world’s oldest vines, some over 80 years old, producing wines with a deep, complex character. The guide emphasizes that the wines here are aged long and are highly rated, often scoring above 90 points. As one review mentions, “the wineries chosen were different and all were wonderful,” giving us confidence that each stop offers a unique perspective on Rioja winemaking.

Next, you’ll head to Samaniego in Rioja Alavesa, dubbed the “Côte d’Or” of Rioja. Here, the high-altitude vineyards with Atlantic influence create a cooler climate ideal for tempranillo grapes. We loved the focus on small, family-run wineries, which typically mean more personalized attention and stories behind each bottle. You’ll get a real sense of the craftsmanship that goes into each wine.

The afternoon takes you to Laguardia, a picturesque medieval town with fortified walls, cobbled streets, and underground cellars. Walking through Laguardia feels like stepping back in time. The underground cellars are a highlight, revealing the traditional methods of aging Rioja wines and giving you a tangible connection to the region’s history. The town’s scenic views of vineyards and mountains add to the sense of place.

Finally, you’ll enjoy a tasting of Rioja wines paired with local tapas, a relaxing way to savor the flavors while soaking in Laguardia’s ambiance. The hosts make it clear that the tapas complement the wines perfectly. Then, a short drive to El Villar offers a surprise—visiting one of the oldest basque dolmens, over 5,000 years old, surrounded by vineyards. It’s a quiet, contemplative stop that adds a layer of cultural depth to the tour.

The Wine and Food Experience

Throughout the day, you’ll try multiple wines at each winery, with tasting notes and stories shared by your guide. The wines are not just drinks but gateways into the region’s terroir, history, and craftsmanship. One guest raves, “Sara was an excellent and knowledgeable host, making the trip comfortable and interesting,” which underscores the importance of expert guiding in making this tour stand out.

The included lunch is more than just a break. It’s a thoughtfully curated meal, featuring local ingredients and paired with Laguardia wines. This sit-down meal adds value and allows you to digest both the wine and the scenic surroundings.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour offers round-trip transportation from Bilbao, which means you can indulge without worry about driving. This is a real advantage, especially if you plan on tasting freely. The tour is private, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

The length of the day, about 8 hours, allows plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. The tour’s popularity — booked an average of 215 days in advance — speaks to its desirability and the value travelers place on this immersive experience.

Pricing and Value

At $474.33 per person, this tour may seem costly, but it offers a high-value experience. You gain access to private wineries, expert guidance, high-rated wines, delicious food, and the convenience of transportation — all in one package. Given that the wines are from family-run wineries with highly praised vintages, it’s a chance to taste some of Rioja’s best without any hassle.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

Reviews highlight the welcoming nature of the hosts, especially guides like Sara, who are described as charming and knowledgeable. Guests appreciate the authentic insights into wine production and local culture, making this more than just a tasting — it’s an educational journey.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore Rioja’s boutique wineries without the stress of self-driving. It’s perfect for those interested in history and culture, given the stops in Laguardia and the ancient dolmen. It also suits travelers who enjoy high-quality, personalized experiences and want a relaxed day with excellent food and drink.

However, because of the focus on wine and culture, it might not be ideal for children or those uninterested in wine tasting. The private nature and customizable elements make it suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a boutique, authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, comprehensive look at Rioja’s wine culture, this private tour offers fantastic value. The combination of high-quality wines, beautiful scenery, historic towns, and expert guides makes it a memorable day out from Bilbao.

The flexibility to customize and indulge freely, paired with the convenience of door-to-door transport, makes this tour especially appealing. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Rioja’s character and a handful of memorable bottles.

For anyone wanting a relaxed, insightful, and delicious taste of one of Spain’s most famous wine regions, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers transportation from Bilbao, guided visits to three boutique wineries, tastings of several high-rated wines, a traditional lunch with wine pairing, and visits to historic sites like Laguardia and the ancient dolmen.

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Yes. The guides share stories and tasting notes that can help newcomers understand wine, and the day is paced to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your interests, according to the guide’s suggestions and your preferences.

How long does the tour last?
About 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Bilbao in the late afternoon or early evening.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its private, boutique focus allows for personalized attention, and the inclusion of a full day of tastings, sightseeing, and lunch makes it a well-rounded experience.

Is there any free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What kind of wines will I taste?
Mostly Rioja wines from family-run wineries, many with scores above 90 points, showcasing traditional styles from different subregions.

Are there any scenic views?
Yes, especially in Laguardia, with its walls and scenic vineyards against mountain backdrops, and from the high-altitude vineyards of Rioja Alavesa.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, round-trip transfers are provided, ensuring a relaxed experience without the worry of driving.

Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or simply a traveler eager to enjoy Spain’s wine and history, this tour offers a satisfying balance of education, relaxation, and authentic local flavor — a true taste of Rioja.