Rioja, Spain’s most renowned wine region, offers a captivating world of flavors waiting to be explored. This immersive 1.5-hour tasting event promises to introduce you to the signature grape varieties and aging classifications that define the exquisite D.O. Rioja wines. While savoring expertly paired tapas, you’ll embark on a journey through the rich heritage and distinct characteristics of these exceptional vintages. Prepare to enhance your appreciation for the depth and complexity that make Rioja wines so alluring.

Contents show

Key Points

The tasting experience provides an introduction to the wines of the Rioja region, focusing on the signature grape varieties of Tempranillo and Garnacha.
Guests can sample a variety of Rioja wines, including styles ranging from young, fruit-forward Jovens to the more complex Gran Reservas.
The tasting includes a rundown of the Rioja aging classifications, highlighting how they contribute to the wine’s maturity and complexity.
The experience features a curated selection of four tapas, expertly paired with the Rioja wines to enhance the food and wine harmony.
The tasting give you a comprehensive appreciation of the diverse and renowned Rioja wine profile through the exploration of grape varieties, aging, and food pairing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The tasting experience offers an introduction to the wines of D.O. Rioja. Priced at $38.21 per person, the 1.5-hour session allows guests to savor a variety of reds, whites, and rosés.

The wines showcase the region’s characteristic grape varieties like Tempranillo and Garnacha, as well as different aging classifications. Attendees will learn about the nuances of Joven, Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva wines.

The experience includes a food pairing, with 4 tapas designed to complement the wines. With cancellation flexibility and the option to reserve now and pay later, the tasting is an accessible and engaging way to explore Rioja’s renowned vintages.

Hungry for more Rioja Almeria flavors? We've covered these other food and drink spots

Experience Highlights

Guests savor a variety of wines from the renowned D.O. Rioja region during this tasting experience.

They’ll sample reds, whites, and rosés, each with its own aging style. The instructor highlights the characteristic grape varieties – Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Viura – that define Rioja’s wines.

Plus, guests learn about the aging classifications, from the youthful Joven to the well-aged Gran Reserva.

This comprehensive tasting provides a deep dive into Rioja’s diverse and distinctive wine styles, equipping participants with a newfound appreciation for this iconic Spanish wine region.

Characteristic Grape Varieties

Although Rioja is known for its iconic red wines, the region also produces excellent white and rosé wines.

The characteristic grape varieties of Rioja include:

Tempranillo – The signature red grape, known for producing bold, full-bodied wines with flavors of dark fruit, vanilla, and spice.
Garnacha – A red grape that adds body, alcohol, and red fruit aromas to blends.
Viura – The primary white grape, resulting in crisp, aromatic wines with citrus and floral notes.

These grapes, when expertly blended and aged, create the diverse and renowned Rioja wines.

Aging Classifications

Along With the characteristic grape varieties, Rioja wines are also distinguished by their aging classifications. The aging process determines the style and quality of the wine. Rioja producers employ four main classifications:

| Aging | Description |

|——-|————-|

| Joven | Young, fruit-forward wines |

| Crianza | Aged for at least 2 years, with at least 1 year in oak |

| Reserva | Aged for at least 3 years, with at least 1 year in oak |

| Gran Reserva | Aged for at least 5 years, with at least 2 years in oak |

These classifications provide wine enthusiasts with a clear understanding of the wine’s maturity and complexity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wine and Food Pairing

The tasting experience also includes a carefully curated selection of tapas designed to highlight the characteristics of each Rioja wine.

The pairing allows guests to create harmony between the food and drink. Guests will savor:

A crisp white Rioja paired with a bite-sized Spanish tortilla.
A lively rosé Rioja matched with a tangy tomato and olive tapa.
A bold red Rioja Crianza complemented by a rich Manchego cheese and quince paste.

This thoughtful food and wine pairing elevates the tasting, enabling guests to fully experience the flavors of Rioja.

There's plenty more to explore in Rioja Almeria

A Sip-By-Sip Tour of 3 Boutique Family Rioja Wineries

Accessibility and Instructors

The tasting experience is accessible to guests, as the instructor is available to provide commentary in both Spanish and English. This ensures that all attendees can fully engage with and understand the wines and pairings presented.

| Accessibility | Instructor Availability | Private Group Options |

|:————-:|:———————:|:———————:|

| Wheelchair accessible | Spanish and English | Customizable experiences |

| Suitable for adults 18+ | Knowledgeable and experienced | Cater to specific needs |

| Non-smoking environment | Passionate about Rioja wines | Flexible scheduling |

This inclusive approach creates an enriching and memorable tasting experience for participants of all backgrounds and language preferences.

Important Information

Although the tasting experience is open to adults 18 and over, it’s not suitable for children. Smoking isn’t allowed during the tasting.

This tasting experience is for adults 18 and over only, and smoking is prohibited during the event.

Here are some additional important details:

The tasting lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

It’s important to check availability for starting times and the meeting point.

This introduction to the wines of D.O. Rioja promises an engaging and informative experience for passionate wine enthusiasts.

Tasting Notes

As guests arrive for the tasting, they’ll be greeted by an expert instructor who will guide them through a selection of Rioja’s finest wines. The tasting includes four wines, each paired with a complementary tapas dish to accentuate the unique flavors. Guests will have the opportunity to savor the region’s signature grape varieties – Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Viura – in various styles ranging from young and vibrant to complex and aged.

| — | — | — | — |

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Offer Non-Alcoholic Pairing Options?

Unfortunately, the experience does not offer non-alcoholic pairing options. The focus is on discovering the wines of the Rioja region and pairing them with tapas. However, the instructor may be able to accommodate special dietary requests if notified in advance.

Is It Possible to Customize the Wine Selection?

Yes, the wine selection can be customized. Customers can request a tailored wine tasting experience, focusing on specific grape varieties, aging styles, or personal preferences. The experience can be adapted to suit individual needs and preferences.

Can I Bring My Own Food to Pair With the Wines?

Unfortunately, guests can’t bring their own food to pair with the wines. The experience includes a selection of 4 tapas designed to complement the wines. Bringing outside food would not be permitted.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Accommodated?

The experience accommodates certain dietary restrictions and allergies. Customers should notify the staff of any special needs when booking. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.

What Is the Best Way to Get to the Tasting Location?

The best way to get to the tasting location is to check the meeting point details provided when booking. Many venues offer convenient public transportation options nearby or provide directions for driving and parking.

The Sum Up

This immersive tasting event offers an engaging introduction to the world-renowned wines of D.O. Rioja. Guests will explore a diverse selection of reds, whites, and rosés while delving into the region’s signature grape varieties and aging classifications. Expertly paired tapas complement the wines, enhancing one’s appreciation for the rich heritage and exquisite flavors of this celebrated wine-producing area.

You can check availability for your dates here: