Álava: Viña Real Winery

Álava: Viña Real Winery – An Authentic Rioja Experience

If you’re visiting the Rioja region in Spain and want a taste of both history and modern craftsmanship, the Viña Real Winery in Laguardia offers a compelling blend. For just $23 per person, you get a 1.5-hour guided visit that takes you through the entire process from grape intake to bottling — a rare chance to see how wine is made from start to finish all in one place. The tour is led in Spanish by knowledgeable guides and includes a tasting of two distinct wines, making it ideal for those curious about regional wines and authentic vineyard experiences.

What we love about this tour are two key details: first, the combination of a guided visit with a scenic vineyard picnic, providing a relaxed yet informative atmosphere. Second, the modern yet rooted design of the winery, especially the monumental 2004 building which visually ties the traditional Rioja Orography into its architecture. However, a note of caution — the vineyard visit involves an unpaved, uphill road requiring comfortable shoes and a vehicle to access, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues or tight schedules. This experience suits travelers who appreciate wine, scenic landscapes, and expert guidance, especially if you’re eager to connect with the land and the process behind Rioja wines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour: From grape intake to bottling, all stages are covered.
• Expert guidance: Rebeca’s explanations are highly praised for clarity and insight.
• Authentic tasting: Includes two wines and regional cheese & chorizo.
• Scenic vineyard visit: Picnic included with views from the vineyard and viewpoint.
• Accessible experience: Wheelchair accessible and conducted in Spanish.
• Value-focused: At $23, offers a well-rounded, authentic experience.

A Deep Dive into the Viña Real Winery Tour

Location and Setting

The Viña Real Winery is in Laguardia, in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, a region famous for its premium wines and beautiful landscapes. The winery’s modern architecture, designed in 2004, is an eye-catching feature — a giant, monumental vat that visually echoes the surrounding Orography of Rioja. Sitting atop a hill, the vineyard offers sweeping views, inviting travelers to soak in the landscape. The vineyard visit is a highlight, especially if you enjoy scenic walkways and open-air tasting.

What the Tour Includes and How it Unfolds

The core of the experience is a guided tour that lasts around 90 minutes. Your guide will walk you through the winery’s history — dating back to 1920 — emphasizing how the brand has maintained its authenticity amid modern innovations. The guides are known for their clear and engaging explanations; one reviewer even praised Rebeca’s “great explanations,” which made the whole experience more interesting and approachable.

You’ll get to taste two wines: the Viña Real Fermented in Barrel and the Viña Real Reserva, both showcasing different styles of Rioja wines. These tastings are accompanied by regional cheese and chorizo, providing a delicious pairing that enhances the tasting experience. Expect to learn about the unique characteristics of Rioja wines, such as their aging process and the influence of local grapes.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Vineyard and Picnic Experience

Beyond the winery, there’s an option for a picnic visit to the vineyard. This lasts about 2.5 hours and adds a more relaxed element to the day. You’ll visit the vineyard and a viewpoint, then enjoy a picnic with four savory appetizers and a sweet treat, paired with two more wines: Viña Real Blanco Fermentado en Barrica and Viña Real Reserva.

This part of the experience is weather-dependent since access involves a guided drive up an unpaved road. The activity is best suited for those comfortable with a short vehicle transfer and walking on uneven terrain. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate scenic vistas and local cuisine in a vineyard setting.

Practical Considerations

• Price: At $23, this is a highly accessible option, especially considering the included tastings and guided insights.
• Duration: The main tour lasts 90 minutes; the vineyard picnic adds about 2.5 hours.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offered in Spanish, so check if language support or mobility assistance is needed.
• Group size: With a minimum of two people, it’s best suited for small groups or couples seeking a more intimate experience.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must — particularly for the vineyard visit, which involves walking on uneven ground and a vehicle ride up a hill. Bringing a light jacket might be wise, especially if visiting in cooler months or evenings.

Authenticity and Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the guided explanations, describing the tour as “really interesting” and “great.” The fact that Rebeca’s explanations are highlighted indicates the importance of knowledgeable guides in enriching wine tours. The tasting component receives high marks too, especially for the regional cheese and sausage pairing, adding to the local flavor.

Final Thoughts: Who Is It Best For?

This tour is a strong choice for wine lovers on a budget, eager to see both the traditional and modern sides of Rioja winemaking. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience, combining a guided visit, scenic vineyard views, and authentic tastings. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and enjoy learning about local food and wine culture, this experience offers genuine value.

However, travelers with mobility issues or a tight schedule might want to confirm the access details beforehand, given the unpaved road and hilltop location. And if you’re seeking a larger-scale or more luxury-focused tasting, other options in the region might be more suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, so if you don’t speak the language, it might be helpful to have some translation support or check if the guide offers any multilingual options.

How long does the main tour last?
The guided visit lasts about 90 minutes, giving plenty of time for exploration and tasting without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the tasting?
You will taste two wines: Viña Real Fermented in Barrel and Viña Real Reserva. The tasting also includes regional Sierra de Cameros cheese and Rioja chorizo sausage.

Is there an additional activity or is it just the winery visit?
Yes, there is an optional picnic visit to the vineyard, which includes a drive up to the vineyard, views, two more wines, and a picnic menu with savory and sweet options.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, availability varies, and it’s advisable to check starting times and book in advance. The activity requires a minimum of two participants.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on uneven terrain and the vehicle ride. Bringing a light jacket is also a good idea, depending on the weather.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 4 days in advance for a full refund.

In Summary

The Álava Viña Real Winery tour offers a genuine look into Rioja’s winemaking, combining historical insight with modern architecture, scenic vineyard visits, and tasty regional pairings. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value guided expertise, authentic experiences, and scenic landscapes without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour makes for a memorable, educational visit that highlights the best of Rioja’s viticultural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: