Wine Lovers: Wine Tasting Tour at El Grifo Bodega Lanzarote

Introduction

If you’re visiting Lanzarote and have a penchant for wine, a visit to El Grifo Bodega offers more than just tasting. This well-regarded wine tasting tour combines a walk through history, a peek into traditional and innovative wine-making techniques, and plenty of opportunities to savor some of the Canary Islands’ best wines.

What really makes this experience shine is the expertise of the guides—many reviews highlight knowledgeable, engaging guides like Jacqueline and Alexandra—who bring the stories of local wines to life. Plus, the setting itself is beautiful, with lush vineyards and scenic views that make the tasting even more enjoyable.

That said, it’s worth noting that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the winery. This tour is best suited for adults with an interest in wine and history, and those who enjoy a relaxed, small-group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Historic winery dating back to 1775 with a dedicated wine museum
• Taste 6 carefully curated wines paired with local cheeses
• Learn about Lanzarote’s unique soil and climate influence on wine
• Guided by expert sommeliers who share insights and answer questions
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) for a more intimate experience
• No hotel pickup included, so plan your transportation

A Deep Dive into the El Grifo Wine Tasting Experience

The Historic Setting and Museum Visit

One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to explore the oldest winery in the Canary Islands, which has been producing wine since 1775. The onsite Wine Museum is a real gem—here, you’ll see tools and utensils used in the 19th and 20th centuries, and learn how the winery operated until its closure in the 1990s.

Walking through the old winery’s stone walls, you get a tangible sense of Lanzarote’s wine roots. The museum beautifully preserves the past, making it clear how traditional methods evolved and how volcanic soils and trade winds shape the vineyards today.

The Guided Tour with the Head Sommelier

The heart of this experience is a guided tour led by the head sommelier, offering a mix of storytelling, technical insights, and tasting tips. Reviewers consistently mention guides like Jacqueline and Alexandra, who bring passion and detailed knowledge, making the tour engaging for both novices and seasoned wine lovers.

Expect to learn about the unique characteristics of grapes like malvasia, listán negro, and syrah, and how Lanzarote’s volcanic earth influences their flavor profiles. The guides explain how the semi-circular stone enclosures protect vines from the wind and how trade winds impact fermentation.

Tasting Six Top Wines

After the educational part, you move to the tasting section—here, you’ll sample six of the best wines produced onsite. The wines are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the diversity of Lanzarote’s wine offerings, from aromatic whites to robust reds.

Many reviews note the generous pours and the pairing with local cheeses, which elevate the tasting experience. One reviewer appreciated the chance to buy bottles directly from the shop, noting their affordability and quality—perfect for bringing a taste of Lanzarote home.

The Flavorful Pairings and Atmosphere

The pairing with local cheeses is more than just a snack; it’s a carefully curated complement that highlights the wines’ nuances. Expect to taste cheeses from local producers, which add a creamy, savory dimension to the experience.

Guests often comment on the cozy, welcoming atmosphere created by the small group setting (limited to 10 people). This intimacy allows for more interaction with the guides, who are eager to answer questions about wine, food pairings, and Lanzarote’s unique terroir.

The Practical Aspects: Duration, Cost, and Group Size

This tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching activity. The price, which includes the guided tour, six tastings, and cheese, is generally considered good value, especially given the quality of the wines and the expertise involved.

Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation—perhaps a taxi or rental car. The small group size enhances the experience, avoiding the impersonal feel of larger tours and allowing for personalized attention.

Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers consistently rave about the friendly guides, with many praising their ability to make wine tasting accessible and fun. Several mention how the tours are insightful and scenic, with beautiful vineyard views and a chance to see how Lanzarote’s unique climate influences wine production.

The wines, paired with cheeses, are frequently described as delicious and of high quality, with many guests leaving with a few bottles and a better understanding of Lanzarote’s wine scene.

What to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience, it’s geared toward adults—no children under 18 are allowed. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t included, plan accordingly. If you’re a dedicated wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing, informative activity that combines culture and flavor, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This El Grifo wine tasting experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about Lanzarote’s unique vineyard practices and taste some excellent wines in a historical setting. It’s equally suitable for history buffs who appreciate a sense of place and tradition, as well as those who enjoy pairing wine with local foods.

The small group nature and the knowledgeable guides make for an engaging and personal experience, while the scenic vineyard views add a special touch. If you’re after a fun, educational, and delicious activity on Lanzarote, this tour is a fantastic choice.

However, if you’re seeking an activity with included transportation or a more casual, less structured tasting, you might want to consider alternatives.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s only for adults aged 18 and above, as it involves wine tasting.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the winery.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive activity.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a guided tour with the head sommelier, tastings of six wines, and a cheese pairing.

Are the wines served in generous portions?
Yes, reviews mention the tastings are quite generous, allowing you to savor each wine.

Can I buy wines at the end of the tour?
Absolutely. The winery shop offers wines at reasonable prices, and many guests leave with bottles to take home.

Is the tour available in English and Spanish?
Yes, the tour is offered in both languages, accommodating most visitors.

To sum it up, the Wine Lovers: Wine Tasting Tour at El Grifo Bodega Lanzarote offers a well-balanced mix of history, education, and tastings in a scenic setting. If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation of Lanzarote’s distinctive wines and enjoy a personal, guided experience, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a fantastic way to pair a love of good wine with a taste of local culture—an authentic highlight that’s both fun and fulfilling.