Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch (From Bilbao)

If you’re fascinated by Spain’s wine regions but prefer a more intimate experience than large commercial wineries, this Boutique Rioja Wine Tour with Charming Lunch from Bilbao might be just what you’re looking for. It offers a thoughtfully curated day that combines personalized tastings at family-run wineries, a scenic stroll through a medieval village, and a delicious Spanish picnic amidst vineyard views.

What sets this tour apart? First, you get to sample at least 6 high-quality wines, many rated over 90 points by renowned critics. Second, the small group setting—limited to just 7 participants—means you’ll enjoy personalized attention and insider insights. Third, the charming picnic lunch and visits to two contrasting wineries make the experience feel authentic and memorable.

That said, it’s a full-day tour that takes place rain or shine, and it’s not suitable for children under 18, so it’s best suited for adults seeking a relaxed, immersive wine experience. If you love discovering hidden gems and want an enriching day outside Bilbao’s city buzz, this tour offers a balanced blend of education, taste, and culture.

This experience made our article of 10 Best Wine Tours In Bilbao.

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Key Points

Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Highly rated wineries with wines scored over 90 points from top critics.
Authentic, family-run wineries offering contrasts and unique stories.
Scenic picnic lunch in vineyards featuring traditional Spanish products.
Cultural visit to the medieval village of Laguardia adds a charming historical touch.
Comfortable transportation with pickup and drop-off from Bilbao enhances convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Rioja Wine Tour Special

This guided day trip from Bilbao is designed to balance wine education, sensory delight, and cultural exploration. The experience begins with a pickup in a spacious, modern van with leather seats, air conditioning, and automatic transmission—making the roughly 1-hour journey to La Rioja comfortable and effortless. Your guide, Irene—who gets rave reviews for her friendly, knowledgeable style—sets the tone for a day full of interesting stories and insider tips.

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Visiting Boutique Wineries with a Personal Touch

The core of the tour involves visiting two family-run wineries in the Rioja Alavesa region. These are carefully chosen for their differences and authenticity—one could be a small, artisanal producer, while the other might offer a contrasting scale or philosophy. The purpose? To give you a well-rounded view of what makes Rioja wines unique.

At each stop, you’ll taste at least 6 wines, many rated above 90 points by critics like Tim Atkin and James Suckling. The wines include varieties such as Cosecha, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reservas, each with distinct aging processes and flavor profiles. Your guide will explain how these wines are graded, and what characteristics define each category. From the reviewers’ perspectives, most wines enjoyed high praise, making your tasting experience even more rewarding.

The Authentic Touch: Personal Stories and Expert Guidance

According to guest reviews, Irene not only shares her profound knowledge but also tailors parts of the trip to suit your interests. One traveler appreciated how she wanted to show them the vineyard from which a particular wine originated—giving a behind-the-scenes glimpse that larger tours often miss.

A Delicious Spanish Picnic in the Vineyard

Midday, the tour pauses for a scenic picnic in the vineyards. You’ll enjoy a traditional Spanish spread, including Iberican Ham, Spanish omelets, cheeses, cold meats, and nuts—all served in a picturesque setting. Many reviews highlight how much guests appreciated this relaxed, authentic meal that complements the wine tasting perfectly. It’s an experience that elevates the visit from mere sightseeing to a genuine taste of local culture.

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Exploring LaGuardia: A Medieval Gem

The tour includes a visit to Laguardia, a beautifully preserved medieval village encircled by vineyards and mountains. As you wander its narrow streets and ancient walls, you’ll get a sense of the region’s history and charm. Guests often mention how this stop adds a cultural layer that balances the wine-focused activity.

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Practical Details and Overall Value

The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with pickup and drop-off from the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. The small group size means you won’t feel rushed, and the transportation is comfortable, making the day both enjoyable and effortless.

The tour’s cost includes wine tastings, a guided experience, food, and transportation, which many reviewers agree offers excellent value considering the quality of wines and personalized service. The option to reserve now and pay later offers flexibility, especially useful if your plans might shift.

What Could Be Better?

While largely praised, some might find the schedule a full day’s commitment, especially if they prefer more relaxed itineraries. Also, since the tour operates rain or shine, it’s wise to bring suitable weather gear if rain is forecast. The tour is designed for adults, so younger wine enthusiasts might need to wait until they’re 18 or over.

Final Thoughts

This Boutique Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao offers an authentic, fun, and educational journey through one of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions. Its personalized approach, high-quality wine selections, and charming village visit make it ideal for wine lovers, culture seekers, and anyone looking for a special day outside the city.

If you’re seeking a small-group experience that combines expert guidance, exceptional wines, and cultural charm, this tour is a fantastic choice. It balances value and quality—giving you a genuine taste of Rioja’s heart and soul.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, starting from the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao in a spacious, modern van.

How many wineries will I visit?
You’ll visit two family-run, boutique wineries, each offering a different perspective on Rioja wine production.

What wines will I taste?
At least 6 wines, including Cosecha, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reservas, most rated over 90 points by top critics.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a scenic picnic featuring traditional Spanish products like Iberican ham, cheeses, and omelets is part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, including travel, tastings, lunch, and village visit.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 years old.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking, plus weather-appropriate gear if rain is forecast.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. The guide explains wine categories and aging processes clearly, making it accessible for all levels.

In summary, this boutique Rioja tour from Bilbao combines the best of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and authentic Spanish cuisine. It’s a memorable way to discover Rioja’s hidden charms, especially if you appreciate personalized service and high-quality wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious, you’ll leave with a full glass—literally and figuratively.