La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)

A Detailed Look at the La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour & Charming Lunch from Bilbao

If you’re heading to Bilbao and love wine, this small-group tour offers a well-balanced peek into Rioja’s famous vineyards, combined with cultural exploration and authentic local cuisine. With a maximum of seven travelers, it promises an intimate experience, guiding you through both traditional and modern winemaking styles, all wrapped up with delicious food and picturesque scenery.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines education with leisure — you’ll taste up to seven wines at two different wineries, each offering unique insights into Rioja’s diverse wine scene. Plus, the visit to Laguardia, with its medieval charm, makes the experience feel like a step back in time.

A notable consideration is the price point—at around $267, it’s an investment, but one that offers a full day of curated visits, private tastings, and a memorable lunch. This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Rioja away from crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: capped at just seven travelers for a personalized experience
• Diverse Wine Tastings: up to seven wines from two distinct wineries, showcasing traditional and modern styles
• Cultural Exploration: walk through the medieval, walled city of Laguardia, with underground cellars and stunning vistas
• All-Inclusive Comfort: includes transportation from Bilbao, a generous picnic lunch, and guided tours
• Expert Guides: knowledgeable, friendly guides like Irene and Marina enhance the experience with local insights
• Authentic Atmosphere: visits to family-run wineries and scenic rural landscapes provide genuine connection

Exploring the Rioja Region: What You Can Expect

This tour takes you into the heart of Rioja, a region renowned for its wine quality and charming villages. Starting in Bilbao, you’ll set off in a comfortable, private vehicle with small groups—just seven people—to ensure a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with guides sharing stories about the Basque Country and Rioja’s winemaking traditions.

The First Stop: Haro

Haro is the epicenter of Rioja’s traditional wine scene. Here, the focus is on ancient, boutique wineries with a personal touch. We loved the way guides select only the finest cellars—places with character, history, and top-rated wines. Expect to tour at least one winery with a full tour of the facilities, or engage in a more private tasting if you prefer.

From reviews, it’s clear that the real charm lies in the personal approach. One guest mentioned, “The families at the local wineries were very personable and fun,” which highlights the warm, authentic vibe of these visits. The wines here lean towards Rioja’s traditional styles—think well-structured reds with a story behind every bottle.

The Second Stop: San Vicente de la Sonsierra

Next, you’ll explore wineries from a town with the highest density of wineries per inhabitant. This part of the tour emphasizes modern Rioja wines, offering a different taste profile from the more traditional first stop. Expect to taste several wines, with knowledgeable guides explaining the subtle differences and the evolution of Rioja winemaking.

One reviewer praised the guide Irene, noting she was “very knowledgeable about Bilbao, the Basque region, and of course wines from Rioja,” which made the tasting more meaningful. The focus on modern styles gives you a sense of Rioja’s ongoing innovation in winemaking.

The Highlight: Laguardia

Laguardia is a true gem—its medieval walls and cobbled streets make it feel like a fairy tale. Here, you’ll enjoy a lunch in one of the wineries, surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, and historic architecture. Reviewers rave about the delicious, home-cooked picnic and the scenic setting, which elevates the entire day.

After lunch, the tour continues with a guided walk through the town’s underground cellars and walled streets, revealing hidden underground wineries and offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. This part of the tour is described as “stunning” and “beautiful,” giving you a delightful mixture of culture, history, and nature.

The Value of a Small-Group Experience

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is the small-group format. With only seven travelers, guides can offer personal attention, answer questions, and tailor the experience a bit—something larger tours often struggle with. Guests frequently mention how this makes the day feel private, despite being part of a small group.

From reviews, guide Irene receives special praise, with guests describing her as “an incredible guide” who was “very knowledgeable” and shared “facts about the different wines and the region.” Marina, another guide, was called “warm, friendly, and funny,” adding authenticity and a relaxed vibe to the day.

Transportation and Timing

The tour departs at 8:30 am from Bilbao, giving you plenty of time to experience Rioja without feeling rushed. The journey is approximately 8 hours, which includes all visits, tastings, and lunch. The use of a comfortable vehicle ensures smooth travel between stops, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and learn about the region en route.

The Food and Wine: What Makes It Special

The highlight for many is the variety and quality of wines. Guests have tasted everything from traditional Rioja reds to more modern creations, with some describing the wines as “fantastic,” “interesting,” and “recommends.” Tasting up to seven wines, you’re likely to encounter a good mix of bold, structured reds and more delicate, contemporary styles.

The lunch is another star. It’s a generous picnic featuring local produce, offering a true taste of Rioja’s culinary traditions. Guests describe it as “delicious,” “well-organized,” and a perfect complement to the wine tastings. Sitting in a winery surrounded by vineyards adds a special dimension to the meal.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Many reviews mention how the tour isn’t just about tasting wine—it’s about meeting the families, learning about the region, and experiencing local customs. One guest noted, “The families at the local wineries were very personable and fun,” highlighting how these personalized visits make the experience memorable.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Rioja tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that balances wine tasting, cultural discovery, and delicious food in a relaxed, intimate setting. If you’re passionate about wine and want to learn about Rioja’s traditional and modern styles while soaking in stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, enjoy storytelling and guided visits, and want a taste of authentic local culture without the crowds. The price reflects a full day of curated visits and high-quality wine, making it a good value for those seeking an above-average wine tour experience.

For those wanting a deeper dive into Rioja’s winemaking, or simply craving a day outside Bilbao with beautiful landscapes and excellent wines, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Bilbao in a comfortable vehicle is part of the package, ensuring a smooth and scenic journey through Rioja.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit at least two wineries—one traditional and one modern—each offering private or guided tours with tastings.

What is included in the lunch?
A generous picnic lunch is provided, featuring local produce, set in a winery surrounded by vineyards and medieval scenery.

How many wines will I taste?
Up to seven wines are tasted across the two wineries, providing a good variety of Rioja’s signature styles.

What is the group size?
The tour is capped at seven travelers, making for a more personal and relaxed experience.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund.

Is this suitable for non-drinkers or people with dietary restrictions?
While primarily focused on wine, the tour emphasizes cultural and scenic experiences; dietary restrictions aren’t specified but could be discussed in advance.

When does the tour start and end?
It departs at 8:30 am from Bilbao and returns to the starting point after roughly eight hours.

Who is the tour operator?
The experience is provided by Northern Spain Gastronomy, known for curated culinary and wine experiences in the region.

To sum it up, this La Rioja Boutique Wine Tour from Bilbao offers a thoughtfully curated day filled with excellent wines, cultural gems, and authentic local flavors. Its small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and scenic stops make it an ideal choice for those wanting a genuine and memorable Rioja experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about the region, this tour provides a well-balanced introduction that’s both educational and enjoyable.