Rioja Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Bilbao

A Practical Look at the Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao

If you’re thinking about exploring the Rioja wine region without the hassle of driving yourself, this Rioja Wine Tour from Bilbao could be just what you need. It promises visits to two different wineries, tastings of five wines, and a chance to soak up stunning rural views—all within a manageable 7-hour window.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on small-group intimacy, which often translates into more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the inclusion of a light meal and snacks makes it more than just a tasting—it’s a full experience. On the flip side, the price might seem steep to some, especially since lunch isn’t included, but considering the quality of the wineries and the guide’s knowledge, many find it worth the splurge. This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or friends wanting a scenic escape. If you’re after a structured, informative, and enjoyable day in Rioja, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Small-group tours enhance the experience with more personalized service.
• Two wineries offer a good variety for tasting and insight into different production styles.
• Scenic drives and views of the rural landscape add charm to the day.
• Five wines sampled provide a solid tasting experience, especially for wine lovers.
• Light meal and snacks help balance the day without additional cost.
• Professional guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Price reflects quality but is on the higher side, which is common for curated wine tours.
• Booking in advance (about 49 days on average) is recommended to secure your spot.

A Complete Breakdown of the Rioja Wine Tour

If you’re considering this tour, understanding what happens during the day can help you decide if it aligns with your expectations. Let’s walk through each segment, along with insights drawn from traveler reviews to clarify what you can realistically expect.

The Pick-up and Transport

The tour starts at 9:00 am, with pickup offered from Bilbao, making logistics straightforward. The vehicle is air-conditioned, a welcome comfort especially during warmer months. The group size is capped at 8 travelers, which keeps things intimate and manageable.

Traveling in a small group also means you’re likely to get more attention from your guide, who’s praised for his knowledgeable and friendly demeanor (many reviews mention guides like Adur, José, and Pilar by name). While the drive’s scenery is frequently described as beautiful, some reviews note that the driver’s style can vary—one mentioned being a bit uncomfortable due to erratic driving, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to that.

First Winery: Underground Charm and Tastings

Your first stop is at a winery that features a tour of an underground winery, something that many find quite special. The visit lasts about 2 hours, and you’ll sample a selection of wines. Reviewers mention that the variety of wines and the knowledgeable guides make this part of the day particularly enjoyable. The experience at this winery is often described as interesting and informative, with some reviewers saying they appreciated the behind-the-scenes look at how wines are crafted.

Second Winery: A More Traditional Experience

The second winery visit is a little shorter—around an hour—but no less worthwhile. The reviews highlight that both wineries are distinct and unique, offering different styles and production methods. Many say that the wines here are good quality, contributing to a bountiful tasting experience, with some reviewers calling the wine delicious.

The Village of Laguardia: A Scenic Stop & Pintxos Lunch

After the wineries, the tour heads to the picturesque village of Laguardia for about 2 hours. This is often praised as a highlight—a charming town with scenic streets, historic buildings, and plenty of photo opportunities.

A light meal is included, typically consisting of pintxos—small Spanish bites—served at a local bar or restaurant. Multiple reviews mention how enjoyable and delicious this lunch was, with some calling it bountiful. It allows you to relax and soak in local flavors without the need to hunt for a good spot yourself, which can be tricky in a busy tourist area.

Overall Experience and Guides

Across reviews, the guides consistently earn high marks, with comments like “knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic.” Guides seem to go out of their way to share stories and details that enrich the experience, making the day feel more personal and engaging.

One reviewer shared that her guide “shared important information about the area and the country,” which helped deepen her appreciation of Rioja’s landscape and culture.

The Value for Money

While the $278.66 per person price may seem high, many travelers agree that it’s worth it given the quality of the wineries, the scenic drives, and the expert guidance. The inclusion of five wines, snacks, and a small-group setting makes it a comprehensive tasting outing.

However, some mention that lunch is not included, which could be a downside if you’re looking for a full-day meal deal. Still, the pintxos lunch provides good value, especially since it’s included in the tour price.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Intimate group size ensures a relaxed, guided experience.
– Two different wineries provide variety and insight into Rioja’s wine-making.
– Beautiful scenery throughout the drive, with surprise stops often added.
– Highly knowledgeable guides significantly enhance the experience.
– Good reviews consistently mention the quality of the wine and the overall enjoyment.

Cons:
– The price might be a barrier for some.
– Lunch isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you’re very hungry or prefer a full sit-down meal.
– One review highlighted erratic driving, which could affect sensitive travelers.
– The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates good wine, loves scenic drives, and prefers small-group experiences with personalized attention, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially great if you want to learn about Rioja wine in a relaxed setting, with knowledgeable guides making the journey informative yet informal.

This tour works well for couples and friends but isn’t necessarily aimed at families or children due to alcohol restrictions and the nature of tastings. It’s ideal for those with a moderate budget, who don’t mind paying a bit more for a curated experience with expert guidance.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available from Bilbao, simplifying your logistics and saving you the hassle of finding a meeting spot.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are lunch and snacks included?
A light meal, typically pintxos, is included at Laguardia or Labastida. Extra food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a total of 5 wines at the wineries, with specific varieties depending on the wineries visited.

Can I book alone?
Most travelers book in groups. A minimum of 2 adults is required, and bookings for single travelers need confirmation from the operator.

What about weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately for the forecast, especially if it’s rainy or cold.

Are children allowed?
Under 18 years old are not permitted to drink alcohol, so this tour is best suited for adults.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This Rioja wine tour from Bilbao offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to explore the region’s wines without the stress of self-driving. The combination of scenic drives, two diverse wineries, and a charming village makes for a memorable day. The guides’ reputation for being knowledgeable and friendly adds value, ensuring you not only taste good wines but also gain insights into Rioja’s culture and landscape.

While it’s priced toward the higher end—reflecting its curated nature—the experience seems to deliver the quality and depth that many travelers seek. It’s especially suited for wine aficionados, couples, or friends wanting a scenic, educational, and relaxing escape from Bilbao.

If you’re looking for a convenient, guided way to enjoy Rioja’s best wines and scenery, this tour could very well be worth the investment. Just remember to account for the cost of lunch and perhaps plan your day around the taste of a good Rioja afterward.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just interested in the beautiful scenery and culture of Rioja, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, taste, and relaxation.