Lanzarote: El Grifo Wine Cellar Tour with Tasting

Travelers seeking a taste of Lanzarote’s unique viticulture will find the El Grifo Wine Cellar Tour a compelling experience. This 1.5-hour adventure offers a blend of history, scenic vineyards, and a chance to sample award-winning volcanic wines—all guided by knowledgeable staff who love sharing their passion.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, it combines a visit to century-old vineyards with insights into traditional and innovative wine-making techniques. Secondly, the small group size ensures personal attention, making the visit both relaxed and engaging. Lastly, it includes a tasting of three different wines, including some of the island’s most celebrated volcanic varieties.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour’s duration is relatively short, so those eager for a more in-depth experience might wish to pair this with additional explorations. Still, it’s ideal for those who want a well-rounded overview without spending a whole day.

This experience suits wine lovers, curious travelers eager to learn about Canary Islands’ viniculture, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Lanzarote’s wine scene.

Key Points

• Historic Vineyards: Walk through 100-year-old vineyards with insights into traditional Lanzarote viticulture.
• Vintage & Modern Cellars: Visit both the original 1775 wine cellar and the contemporary facilities.
• Expert Guides: Guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and provide engaging context in both English and Spanish.
• Tasting Experience: Sample three highly awarded volcanic wines, with detailed explanations of their unique qualities.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Book in advance with flexible cancellation options and pay later to suit your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Historic & Scenic Vineyards

The tour begins in century-old vineyards, where you’ll walk among vines that have weathered Lanzarote’s volcanic climate. As one reviewer highlighted, “we got a chance to walk the vineyard,” which makes you appreciate how these vines survive and thrive in such unique conditions. The vineyards are not only picturesque but also carry stories of traditional viticulture practices that have persisted for generations.

The Original Wine Cellar: A Taste of History

Founded in 1775, the original wine cellar is a highlight for history buffs and wine aficionados alike. Visiting this historic site offers a tangible link to Lanzarote’s long-standing wine tradition, showcasing how winemaking has adapted over centuries. Guides explain how volcanic soils influence the wines’ distinctive minerality, a trait that makes Lanzarote wines truly stand out.

Modern Cellar & Innovative Production

After exploring the historic cellar, you’ll tour the modern wine cellar, where current techniques blend tradition with innovation. This part of the experience underscores how El Grifo has evolved while respecting its roots. It provides insight into the techniques behind producing volcanic wines that appeal to a global audience.

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The Tasting: Savoring Volcanic Wines

The tasting session is designed to be both educational and enjoyable. You’ll sample three of El Grifo’s most awarded wines, which often include red, white, and possibly a rosé or specialty volcanic wine. Reviewers raved about the wines, mentioning the inclusion of Syrah for red wine, and the fact that they’re “delicious volcanic wines.” The guide provides explanations about the flavor profiles, such as minerality and the influence of volcanic soils on the wines’ distinctive taste.

Insights from the Guides

Guests consistently praise the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides. One reviewer mentioned Jacky, a German-speaking guide, whose “great energy and passion” made the experience memorable. The guides’ explanations add value, transforming a simple tasting into a mini-lesson on Lanzarote’s wine culture.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Duration & Timing

At just 1.5 hours, the tour is short enough to fit into a busy schedule but packed with meaningful content. It’s advisable to check availability for specific starting times, as they can vary.

Group Size & Atmosphere

Limited to 10 participants, the small group setting fosters a friendly, informal atmosphere. It allows for more interaction with the guide and the chance to ask questions freely. This size also means fewer crowds, letting you enjoy the experience more intimately.

What to Bring & Restrictions

Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking through vineyards and cellar areas. Pets are not allowed, likely due to the nature of the visits and tasting areas.

Price & Value

The cost includes the visit, the guided tour, and the tasting of three wines. Considering the historical significance, vineyard walk, and expert guidance, this tour offers solid value for wine enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The small group size enhances the experience, making it feel personalized.

Cancellation & Flexibility

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your trip with confidence.

What Reviewers Say

Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed atmosphere. Annabel appreciated that “Jacky had great energy and was very passionate,” making the experience both informative and fun. Serryn found it “very informative and interesting,” with the added bonus of delicious volcanic wines. John praised the excellent surroundings and the relaxed pace, emphasizing how the guide’s enthusiasm made the visit stand out.

Unique Highlights Not to Miss

• The chance to see Lanzarote’s oldest winery firsthand.
• The stories behind the volcanic soils and their impact on wine flavor.
• The opportunity to taste some of the island’s most awarded wines, including Syrah.
• The intimate, small-group approach that encourages questions and interaction.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re passionate about wine or curious about Lanzarote’s unique volcanic landscape, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer small, intimate groups and guided insights. You’ll love it if you want a relaxed, educational experience without the long hours of a full-day tour.

It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring local history, as the visit to the historic cellars offers a tangible connection to the island’s past. Wine novices and enthusiasts alike will find value here, thanks to the approachable guide explanations and the chance to sample some superb volcanic wines.

The Sum Up

The El Grifo Wine Cellar Tour offers an authentic taste of Lanzarote’s wine-making tradition, combining historic charm with modern innovation. It delivers a well-balanced, engaging experience that’s ideal for those wanting to learn about volcanic wines in a relaxed setting.

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the guided tasting of three award-winning wines, which showcase the best of Lanzarote’s volcanic terroir. The personal, small-group approach makes it a memorable outing, perfect for wine lovers or anyone interested in the island’s culture.

While it’s a short tour, its depth of information and the chance to walk through historic vineyards provide great value for the price. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, educational experiences over a quick tasting session.

If you want a meaningful connection to Lanzarote’s winemaking heritage, combined with stunning vineyard views and expert guidance, this tour is a must. It’s a charming, informative, and tasty way to spend an afternoon on the island.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity that fits easily into your day.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour focuses on wine tasting, it’s best suited for adults or those of legal drinking age, as you will be sampling wines.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll walk through vineyards and cellar areas. No pets are allowed on the tour.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now with the option to pay later provides flexibility.

Do I need to know anything about wine beforehand?
No prior knowledge is needed. Guides are skilled at explaining the process and characteristics, making it accessible for beginners.

Are the wines suitable for all palates?
The wines are highly awarded and represent the best of Lanzarote’s volcanic terroir. If you enjoy trying different types of wine, you’ll likely find something appealing.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and engagement for a diverse group.

This tour is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Lanzarote’s wine culture in an intimate, relaxed setting. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just curious, the combination of history, scenery, and excellent wines makes it a memorable part of any trip to the Canary Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: