Wine Lovers: Wine Tasting Tour at El Grifo Bodega Lanzarote

Imagine walking through Lanzarote’s oldest winery, hearing stories from a knowledgeable guide, and tasting six top-tier wines in a cozy, scenic setting. That’s exactly what the Wine Tasting Tour at El Grifo Bodega offers. Set in the heart of the Canary Islands, this two-hour experience takes you on a journey through history, viticulture, and delicious local flavors. Guided by the head sommelier, you’ll explore a historic museum, learn about Lanzarote’s unique volcanic soils, and sample wines crafted from distinctive grapes like malvasia, listán negro, and syrah.

What we love most about this tour are two key things: first, the expert guidance from someone who really knows wine—making each sip more meaningful—and second, the stunning scenery of semi-circular stone enclosures protecting the vines from the wind. It’s a scenic, educational experience that’s accessible to both seasoned wine lovers and those just curious about what makes Lanzarote wines special. The only caveat? It’s a 2-hour tour, so if you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this might be a bit brief, but it’s perfect for a quick, enriching taste of the island’s wine culture.

This experience is best suited for adults who appreciate good wine, enjoy learning about local traditions, and want a relaxed, small-group setting. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply an enthusiastic traveler wanting to try something authentic and memorable, this tour offers a taste of Lanzarote’s unique wine heritage.

Key Points

• Historic Winery: Experience Lanzarote’s oldest wine cellar, dating back to 1775, and see how wine production has evolved over centuries.
• Expert Guidance: Learn from the head sommelier, who shares insights about grape varieties and the influence of volcanic soils.
• Tasting Experience: Sample 6 premium wines, paired with local cheeses, offering a well-balanced tasting that highlights the island’s best vintages.
• Museum Visit: Explore the Wine Museum, which showcases traditional tools and the history of winemaking on Lanzarote.
• Scenic Setting: Enjoy views of vines protected by semi-circular stone enclosures, designed to shield them from the wind—an ingenious adaptation to Lanzarote’s climate.
• Good Value: With affordable pricing, guided expertise, and tastings included, it’s an experience that offers excellent value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting from the moment you arrive, the guided tour of El Grifo Bodega feels personalized. The small group size, limited to about 10 people, means you’ll get plenty of attention and opportunities to ask questions. As you walk through the historic Wine Museum, you’ll see vintage tools and learn about the winery’s history, which dates back over two centuries. This museum is housed in the original building used until the 1990s, showcasing tools from the 19th and 20th centuries—an authentic glimpse into Lanzarote’s winemaking past.

After exploring the museum, your guide—likely the head sommelier—will lead you through the vineyards, explaining how the volcanic soils and trade winds shape the grapes. Here, you’ll notice how the vines are protected by semi-circular stone walls, designed specifically to shield them from the frequent winds. These enclosures are not just practical—they also add a distinctive charm to the landscape.

The highlight is the wine tasting. Expect to sip 6 different wines, carefully selected as some of the best produced onsite. Each wine showcases different aspects of Lanzarote’s terroir and climate. The wines are described as having enticing aromas, vibrant colors, and complex flavors—and the guide will help you identify these nuances. Pairing each pour with local cheeses enhances the experience, giving you a taste of authentic Canary Islands flavor.

The duration of about 2 hours makes it a perfect activity for those with limited time but wanting an immersive experience. You’ll leave with a better appreciation of Lanzarote’s winemaking techniques, the impact of volcanic soils, and a few bottles to bring home if you wish—plus, the option for discounts on shipping in Europe.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who make complex topics accessible, fun, and engaging. As one reviewer notes, “Jacqueline was a great tour guide and really knowledgeable.” This personal touch makes the tour memorable, especially when paired with the stunning scenery and the chance to try a diverse range of wines.

The wine selection is often highlighted as a standout—six generous tastings that include both white and red wines—paired with delicious local cheeses. Visitors often mention how the wines are “so good” and that they left with bottles they enjoyed at home. Given the price point, many agree this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the depth of information and the tasting experience.

Some reviews also mention how the tour is surprisingly accessible, even for those who aren’t expert wine drinkers. The guides do a good job of explaining the characteristics of each wine, making it enjoyable for everyone. Families with adults or groups of friends will find this a relaxed, friendly atmosphere to discover Lanzarote’s wine culture.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Arrival and Introduction: You’ll start by meeting your guide, often a friendly expert, and getting a brief overview of what’s ahead. Expect a quick introduction to Lanzarote’s winemaking history and the significance of El Grifo.

Visit to the Wine Museum: The first stop is the historic Wine Museum, housed in the original winery building from 1775. Here, you’ll see vintage tools and learn about the traditional methods used in the past. This part is especially appreciated by history buffs and those interested in local craftsmanship.

Vineyard Walk: Next, you’ll stroll through the vineyards, where the semi-circular stone enclosures are a distinctive feature. The guide explains how these protect the vines from wind and help regulate temperature—crucial in Lanzarote’s volcanic environment.

Wine Tasting: The core of the experience, where you’ll taste 6 different wines while listening to the guide’s insights. Expect descriptions of the aromas, colors, and flavors—and learn how volcanic soils influence the grape’s character.

Food Pairing: Each wine is paired with local cheeses, adding a savory dimension to the tasting. Many reviewers mention how this pairing elevates the experience and emphasizes local flavors.

Wrap-up and Shopping: Tours usually conclude with an opportunity to purchase bottles at shop prices, with discounts for European shipping. Some visitors mention leaving with bottles of their favorite vintage, enjoying a taste of Lanzarote long after their trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The knowledgeable guides are consistently praised across reviews, transforming what could be a simple tasting into an engaging mini-lesson. Their passion and expertise shine through, making complex topics accessible and fun.

The scenic setting and innovative vineyard design also add a visual appeal that’s hard to match. The semi-circular stone enclosures are not just practical—they’re part of the story that makes Lanzarote’s wines unique.

Finally, the value for money is clear. With six tastings, cheese pairings, a museum visit, and expert guidance, many say it’s worth more than the modest price. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines education, scenery, and flavors in just two hours.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adults with an interest in wine or local culture but doesn’t require prior knowledge—guides are friendly and informative. It works well for small groups, making for an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Those who appreciate scenic landscapes, local traditions, and authentic flavors will find it particularly rewarding.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a meaningful, compact experience that offers a glimpse into Lanzarote’s wine-making heritage, with the bonus of tasting some of the best wines on the island.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Lanzarote’s unique wine scene, this tour offers a delightful blend of history, science, and taste. The small-group size and expert guidance create a welcoming atmosphere that makes learning about wine fun and accessible. The scenery of protected vines and the historic museum add layers of authenticity and visual charm that make this more than just a tasting.

For those who value good value and want a well-organized, informative experience without the fuss of a full-day tour, this hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers looking to deepen their understanding of local traditions while enjoying some of the best wines Lanzarote has to offer.

While it might be short for those craving a heavy dose of vineyard touring or food pairing, it’s perfect as a highlight or a gentle introduction to Lanzarote’s wine heritage. If you’re seeking an authentic, engaging, and taste-filled experience, this tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is only for adults aged 18 and over.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a compact, manageable experience.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to arrange your own transportation to the winery.

What languages are available?
Tours are conducted in Spanish and English, with small group sizes ensuring clear communication.

Can I buy wine to take home?
Yes, the shop at the end offers wines for sale, often at favorable prices, with discounts on shipping to Europe.

What about the group size?
The tour is limited to about 10 participants, which helps maintain a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

Are there any hidden costs?
All listed inclusions—guide, tastings, cheese—are part of the tour price. Additional bottles or shipping costs are extra.

Do I need prior wine knowledge?
Not at all. Guides explain everything clearly, making it suitable whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine lover.

This tour offers a fine balance of education, scenic beauty, and flavorful tasting, making it an excellent choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Lanzarote’s wine culture. Expect friendly guides, stunning views, and wines that genuinely reflect the volcanic soils of the island—a memorable, worthwhile experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: