Guided Tour Of An Old Winery with Tasting from Alicante and Elche

Exploring a Historic Winery Near Alicante: An Honest Review

Setting out on a guided tour of an old winery in Alicante offers more than just a taste of wine; it’s an intimate glimpse into centuries of tradition, organic farming, and local craftsmanship. This experience, priced at around $64.78 per person, combines a 2.5-hour journey through history, wine, and scenic countryside in a private vehicle, making it an ideal outing for those who love personalized experiences.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the balanced focus on history and wine tasting. Visiting a winery founded in 1707, with ties to the Marquises of La Romana, provides a tangible connection to the region’s past. The fact that it’s not a large bus tour but a private experience means more space, comfort, and personalized attention. That said, one consideration might be that this is a fairly straightforward, no-frills tasting aimed at those interested in exploring local wines and heritage rather than an elaborate wine extravaganza.

This tour suits travelers looking for an educational, authentic adventure that’s easy to fit into a day of exploring Alicante or nearby Elche. Whether you’re a wine novice, history buff, or simply after a relaxing break with good scenery, this experience offers a worthwhile snapshot of the Mediterranean’s winemaking roots.

Key Points

• Authentic Heritage: The winery dates back to 1707, offering a real sense of history.
• Personalized Experience: A private guide and transportation mean a tailored, more relaxed visit.
• Organic Focus: Learn about sustainable farming methods that influence the wines’ flavor.
• Tastings Included: Three wines—white, rosé, and red—complemented by snacks and small bites.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Russian.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, enhancing peace of mind.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Novelda: An 18th-Century Gem

Your journey begins with a visit to an estate that feels frozen in time. The old house, once linked to the Marquises of La Romana, along with the winery’s oldest parts, paints a picture of rural Spain from centuries past. The tour here isn’t just about sipping wine; it’s about understanding how climate and land shape the flavors. The Mediterranean climate, as explained by your guide, is crucial for the organic cultivation of grapes—something modern wine lovers increasingly seek.

One reviewer, Emily, appreciated this aspect, noting how the guide, Igor, made the drive feel safe and enjoyable. The historical setting, with a building from 1707, adds charm and educational value, especially for history enthusiasts. You get a sense that this isn’t a commercialized stop but a place where tradition still lives.

From Vineyard to Bottle: The Wine-Making Process

The highlight of the visit is the walkthrough of the wine-making process. You’ll see where the grapes grow, learn about organic farming practices, and see how the estate produces its wines without synthetic chemicals. The guide explains each step from vineyard to bottle, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine lover.

The tasting session follows, with three wines carefully selected to showcase different styles: a white, a rosé, and a red. Accompanying these are breadsticks, olives, and a small tapa, which help cleanse the palate and add to the authentic experience.

Multiple reviews highlight the value of this tasting. Emily found the wines enjoyable, especially praising the Sauvignon Blanc, while Brett noted the wines were “just okay,” suggesting this tour is more about the experience and tradition than premium wine connoisseurship. If you’re after aged or high-end wines, this might not satisfy, but for a well-rounded introduction to local organic wines, it hits the mark.

Transportation and Comfort

Unlike larger tours that use buses, this experience provides private transportation in a comfortable car, which travelers find noticeably more relaxed and intimate. The driver (like Igor) is often praised for being friendly, attentive, and making the journey feel safe and personalized. This smaller vehicle also allows for flexibility and a more tailored experience.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning about 2 hours 30 minutes, the tour strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the sights and tastings without feeling rushed. The winery visit itself takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, during which you’ll absorb the history and see the estate firsthand.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $65 per person, this tour offers a decent value, especially considering the private transportation, multiple language guides, and three wine tastings. It’s particularly suitable for those wanting a taste of local history without paying for an extensive or more luxurious wine tour. For travelers interested in deeper wine exploration, the tour’s simplicity might seem basic, but it’s perfect for a relaxed sightseeing and tasting outing.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

While the majority of reviews are positive, one reviewer, Brett, described the tour as “no frills” and suggested that if you’re familiar with wines, you might prefer a more advanced experience. Still, others like Angelica emphasize the friendly guides and overall pleasant atmosphere, noting how Igor and the guide made them feel attended to.

The reviews also reveal that the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. Their ability to explain history, vineyard practices, and wine characteristics clearly makes a difference. Emily specifically appreciated Igor’s care during transport, which she describes as making her feel safe and relaxed.

Final Thoughts

This guided winery tour in Alicante offers a genuine peek into Spain’s winemaking roots, combined with a relaxed, private journey through history and taste. You’ll enjoy learning about organic farming, touring a centuries-old estate, and sampling three different wines—all in a comfortable setting with a knowledgeable guide.

It’s best suited for travelers who value authenticity, education, and intimacy over luxury or extensive wine collections. It’s especially appealing to those curious about traditional winemaking in the Mediterranean, or anyone seeking a calming, informative escape from the bustling city.

For anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of local wine culture without overpaying or overextending their itinerary, this experience strikes a good balance of good value, genuine storytelling, and scenic charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since the focus is on wine tasting and the historical estate visit, most travelers—except minors—can participate. Be mindful that wine tasting involves alcohol, but snacks are included to balance the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours 30 minutes, with the estate visit taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private transportation in a comfortable car, not a bus, to make the journey more personal and relaxed.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample three wines: a white, a rosé, and a red, complemented by breadsticks, olives, and a small tapa.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. The tour has a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind for flexible planning.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the experience is led by an in-person guide who speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Russian, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

This tour is a charming, straightforward introduction to Alicante’s wine-making history, ideal for those seeking a meaningful, relaxed, and authentic experience. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a history enthusiast, it offers a delightful taste of the local culture wrapped up in a scenic drive and engaging storytelling.