HOPLITA and FRIENDS tasting

If you’re visiting La Rioja and craving a wine experience that breaks away from the typical vineyard tours, the Hoplita and Friends tasting might just be exactly what you’re looking for. This 1-day experience offers the rare chance to explore Spain’s only winery located in the heart of Logroño’s old town. It combines a fascinating history lesson with tasting an array of wines from Hoplita and international wineries, paired with local bites—in a setting that’s both intimate and historic.

One of the things we love about this tour is its focus on authenticity and storytelling. The guide’s passion really shines through as they reveal the secrets of this 15th-century palace-turned-winery, including details like its 18th-century production capacity and the history woven into its stone walls. Plus, the chance to taste 6 wines—3 from Hoplita and 3 from other parts of the world—offers a diverse perspective on wine styles.

A potential drawback? Since the tour is based in the city center and involves no transportation, it’s not suitable for those looking to visit multiple wineries outside the city. But if your goal is to deepen your understanding of La Rioja’s wine culture without leaving Logroño, this is a perfect fit.

Ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate good stories, historic settings, and international selections, this tour offers a rich, relaxed experience that’s accessible for most travelers.

Key Points

• Location: Only winery in Logroño’s Old Town, offering a historic setting within the city.
• Wine Selection: Tasting of 6 wines—3 from Hoplita and 3 international wines.
• Inclusions: Local products, a visit to the historic cellar, and a barrel room tasting.
• Tour Duration: 120 minutes, perfect for a half-day activity.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories behind the wines and the building.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Historic Setting: A Palace of the 15th Century

Starting with the location, the winery is housed in a former palace dating from the late 15th century, with remnants from the 12th century. It’s rare to find a winery in Logroño with such deep roots, and walking through its stone corridors feels like stepping back in time. During the visit, your guide will share stories of how the winery produced around 20,000 liters of wine back in the 18th century—a fact that highlights its historical significance and the long-standing tradition of winemaking in this region.

The Guided Tour: Secrets of a Historic Winery

The tour lasts about two hours, starting with a walk through the cellars, where the guide reveals hidden details about the building’s architecture and its wine production history. This isn’t just a tasting—it’s about understanding the context and craftsmanship behind each glass. The guide’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge shine, making the experience engaging for both seasoned wine lovers and casual drinkers.

The Tasting Experience: Wines from Around the World

What makes this tour truly special is the curated tasting of 6 wines. You’ll sample three from Hoplita, a local brand producing in Logroño, and three from other international wineries, chosen daily based on inspiration and availability. This rotating selection means that no two tours are exactly the same, keeping each experience fresh and dynamic.

The wines are paired with local products, giving you a taste of La Rioja’s culinary side. These could include cheeses, cured meats, or regional specialties, enhancing the tasting and adding depth to each sip.

Barrel Room Tasting: An Intimate Finale

The final part of the tour takes place in the barrel room—a cozy, historic space within the cellar. Tasting wines directly from the barrel offers a unique perspective on the aging process and the craftsmanship involved. Many reviewers mention the charm of this setting, with one describing it as “a chance to taste history itself.”

The Guide and Personal Touch

Based on reviews, the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, often sharing personal stories that make the experience more memorable. One traveler commented, “The guy was very passionate about his lovely family-run business. We had the best time,” highlighting how authentic and engaging the guides can be.

Practicalities and Value

Pricing and What You Get

At $41 per person, this experience offers excellent value. You’re getting a comprehensive visit—a historic tour, six tastings, local food pairings, and a barrel room experience—all within two hours. Unlike more commercial winery tours, this isn’t just about the wine; it’s about understanding the story, culture, and craft behind each sip.

Location and Convenience

Being located right in Logroño’s Old Town means no long drives or transfers. Meeting next to the large wooden gate makes it easy to find, and the small group size (up to 10 people) ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Accessibility

Since there’s no transportation involved, the tour is best suited for those staying in Logroño or nearby. It’s ideal for travelers who want an authentic, city-centered experience without leaving the historic heart of La Rioja.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers who appreciate history and story-driven tastings. It’s also a good choice for those wanting a small, intimate group setting with knowledgeable guides. If you’re staying in Logroño and want to avoid the hassle of traveling to vineyards, this is a stellar option. However, if your focus is on touring multiple, larger wineries outside the city, you may want to consider other options.

It’s also great for travelers interested in international wines paired with local flavors, providing a broader view of what inspires contemporary winemakers.

The Sum Up

The Hoplita and Friends tasting offers a genuinely enriching way to explore La Rioja’s wine scene from the comfort of its historic center. It combines history, culture, and a diverse wine selection, all guided by passionate, well-informed hosts. This tour isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about understanding the stories behind each glass and appreciating the craftsmanship that goes into making them.

For travelers looking for an authentic, accessible experience with a personal touch, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, engaging way to deepen their appreciation of Rioja’s wine heritage without leaving Logroño.

If you love discovering hidden gems and enjoy a good narrative along with your wine, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and valuable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, the tour is primarily about learning and enjoying the historic setting. Non-drinkers can still appreciate the stories and the architecture, but the main activity involves tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 120 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity without taking up your entire day.

Are the wines different every day?
Yes, the selection of international wines varies daily, so each experience feels fresh and unique.

Is the tour appropriate for children or minors?
Since the activity is centered around wine tasting, it’s generally aimed at adults. It’s best suited for those over 18.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially since group sizes are limited to 10 participants.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides offer the experience in both English and Spanish, with some content presented in its original language.

Is transportation included?
No, the experience takes place entirely within Logroño’s city center, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be touring the historic cellars. Dress appropriately for the season, as some areas may be cool.

To sum it up, if you’re after a small, intimate, and story-rich wine experience in Logroño, Hoplita and Friends delivers a memorable snapshot of La Rioja’s wine heritage—paired with international inspiration and a dash of history.