Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)

Experience a Boutique Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao that combines intimate tastings, scenic views, and cultural charm.

This 9-hour guided trip from Bilbao takes you to two family-run, boutique wineries famous for their high-quality wines, where you’ll taste at least six exclusive labels, including some rated over 90 points by renowned critics. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a charming picnic amid the vineyards and explore the medieval village of Laguardia, a picture-perfect town surrounded by mountains and lush vineyards. The tour is operated by Northern Spain Gastronomy, with a small group size limited to 7 participants, making it a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

What we love most about this experience is the careful selection of boutique wineries—each with its own character—and the local, thoughtfully prepared picnic that captures the flavors of Spain perfectly. Plus, the inclusion of a walk through Laguardia’s medieval streets offers a cultural dimension that balances wine tasting with history and architecture.

A potential consideration for travelers is the long day of travel and walking, so those with limited mobility or tight schedules might want to plan accordingly. Also, since the tour runs rain or shine, be prepared for weather variations, though the included transportation makes it easy to stay comfortable.

This experience suits wine lovers eager to go beyond the big brands and discover the stories behind each bottle, as well as travelers interested in pairing their wine adventure with cultural exploration. If you enjoy authentic, small-scale experiences with expert guides, this Rioja tour could be a highlight of your trip to the Basque Country.

Key Points

Authentic boutique wineries — Two family-run, high-quality wineries offer personalized tastings.
Expert-guided experience — Knowledgeable guides explain wine grading, aging, and regional specialties.
Delicious local food — A thoughtfully prepared picnic with cheeses, cold meats, and Spanish dishes.
Cultural visit — The medieval village of Laguardia adds a charming historical touch.
Comfortable transportation — Luxury vans with A/C, leather seats, and automatic transmission ensure a relaxed journey.
Small group size — Limited to 7 participants, fostering intimacy and personalized attention.
Flexible booking — Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
High-rated wines — Most tastings feature wines with 90+ points from critics like Tim Atkin and James Suckling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Rioja Boutique Wine Tour

Starting in Bilbao: Convenient Pickup and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins with a smooth pickup at the Guggenheim Museum, one of Bilbao’s most iconic landmarks. The vehicle is a new, spacious van equipped with leather seats, A/C, and automatic transmission—making the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Rioja a pleasant start. The small group size ensures that you won’t be lost in a crowd; instead, you’ll likely find yourself exchanging stories with your guide and fellow travelers, creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

The Boutique Wineries: Personal Touches and High-Quality Wines

Visiting two carefully selected wineries, each with its own distinct personality, is the core of this experience. These are family-run businesses, often with a deep passion for their craft. What makes the visits special is how the guides personalize the experience—sometimes showing you the vineyard where the grapes come from, explaining the specific terroir, or sharing stories about the family behind each winery.

The wines you’ll taste are mostly rated 90+ by critics like Tim Atkin and James Suckling, which speaks to their quality. Expect to sample at least six different wines, from Cosecha (young wines) to Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva—each with its own aging process and flavor profile.

Taste and Food Pairings

Throughout the day, local cheeses, cold meats, nuts, and Spanish products are served as appetizers, enhancing the wine tasting experience without overwhelming the palate. The highlight for many is the elegant picnic amid the vineyards—a selection of Spanish staples such as Iberico ham and Spanish omelets, served in a scenic outdoor setting. This casual meal lets you savor the flavors of Spain in an authentic environment, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the vineyard views.

Laguardia: A Medieval Gem

The tour’s cultural component takes you to Laguardia, a walled medieval village that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, this town offers a glimpse into Spain’s past through its narrow streets, historic walls, and charming plazas. Walking through Laguardia, you get a break from the wine tasting and an appreciation for the region’s history and architecture. Many reviews highlight how Irene, the guide, shares engaging stories that bring the town’s history to life.

Return to Bilbao: A Comfortable and Reflective Journey

After a full day of tastings, sightseeing, and good food, you’ll head back to Bilbao. The return trip is typically relaxed, with the guide sharing more insights into the region or answering questions about your trip.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The real charm of this tour lies in its authenticity. Visiting family-run wineries means meeting people who are deeply invested in their craft and eager to share their passion. The focus on small-scale, boutique wineries ensures you’re not just tasting generic bottles, but learning about wines with stories, character, and regional identity.

The scenic picnic provides a perfect break—delicious, casual, and set amidst the vines, it’s a highlight for many travelers. Plus, the walk through Laguardia offers a cultural dimension that complements the wine experience beautifully.

Given the high praise from previous travelers—who appreciate the knowledge of the guides, the quality of the wines, and the value for money—it’s clear this tour delivers more than just a taste of Rioja; it provides a memorable snapshot of regional life and wine craftsmanship.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration — Nearly 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day out. Starting times vary, so check with the provider.
Price — While the exact cost isn’t specified here, consider that the price includes transportation, tastings, food, and a guided experience—all of which adds up to good value.
Group Size — Limited to 7 people, perfect for personalized attention but may not appeal if you prefer larger groups.
Weather — Runs rain or shine; pack appropriate clothing for outdoor tasting and walking in Laguardia.
Accessibility — The tour involves walking around Laguardia and vineyards; consider your comfort with walking distances.
Booking Flexibility — Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve without immediate payment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a new, spacious van with leather seats, A/C, and automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth ride between locations.

How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit two boutique, family-run wineries, each offering its own unique flavor and style.

What wines will I taste?
Expect to taste at least six different wines, including Cosecha, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva, with most rated over 90 points.

Is food included?
Yes, a carefully prepared picnic with local cheeses, cold meats, nuts, and Spanish staples is part of the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not permitted on this tour.

What is Laguardia like?
Laguardia is a medieval walled town filled with history, narrow streets, and scenic views—perfect for exploring on foot.

Are the wines locally produced?
Absolutely, the wines are from boutique wineries that focus on regional quality and craftsmanship.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the villages and vineyards; dress according to weather conditions.

To sum it up, this Rioja wine tour from Bilbao offers a well-rounded, authentic experience perfect for those who want more than just a tasting. You’ll get intimate visits to family-run wineries, learn from passionate guides, enjoy a picturesque picnic, and explore a charming medieval village—all in a small group that fosters personal connections. It’s ideal for wine lovers eager to understand the region’s nuances and history while soaking up some of Spain’s best scenery and flavors. If you value quality over quantity, genuine stories, and a relaxed pace, this tour will not disappoint.