Requena Half-Day Private Vineyards & Premium Wine Tastings Tour

If you’re exploring Valencia and have a soft spot for good wines, this Requena tour promises a relaxing afternoon of tasting and storytelling. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it looks like a well-rounded taste of the region’s best organic wines and historic sights.

What really shines here are the top-tier wines you’ll get to sample, from vintage Cavas to distinctive red and white wines made from local grape varieties. Plus, the insightful guidance from a professional sommelier, who is also a wine producer, adds a layer of authenticity and depth that’s often hard to find on generic tours.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the tour’s duration and pace—with a packed itinerary and multiple stops, it might feel a bit rushed if you’re the type who prefers a more leisurely experience. Also, keep in mind that this is a private tour, so it’s tailored but not necessarily suited for families with very young kids or those looking for a casual, unstructured day.

This experience would suit anyone eager to learn about organic viticulture, who appreciates quality wines, and values a mix of cultural sightseeing along with tasting. If that sounds like you, then you’ll likely find this tour both educational and delicious.

Key Points

• In-depth wine education: Guided by a professional WSET/Sommelier, you’ll learn about Spain’s grape varieties and organic viticulture.
• High-quality tastings: Expect to sample 9-11 wines, including vintage Cava and top-tier reds and whites with food pairings.
• Historic and cultural sights: Walkthrough medieval Requena, visit a 10th-century castle, and explore Moors caves and Gothic churches.
• Personalized experience: As a private tour, you’re in a small group or solo, allowing flexibility and tailored tastings.
• Behind-the-scenes access: Get exclusive insights into wine and Cava production, including visits to barrel halls and cellars.
• Optional add-ons: The chance to taste rare Bobal wines in vineyards, plus top-quality olive oils, makes for a memorable added experience.

A Deep Dive into the Requena Experience

The Intro: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is crafted for those who want more than just a quick wine tasting. It’s perfect if you’re curious about organic viticulture or keen to understand what makes Spanish wines, especially those from small bodegas, so intriguing. It’s also a good pick for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and wine—the combination of medieval sights and vineyard visits is thoughtfully balanced.

One thing we love about this experience is the expert guidance from Toni Martin, a sommelier with a deep knowledge of the region. His background and personal wine production bring authenticity to the tastings. The other is the well-curated selection of wines, including vintage Cavas and high-scoring reds, which elevate the whole experience.

A possible drawback? Given the itinerary’s richness, the day might feel a little rushed if you like to take your time with each glass or explore more leisurely. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s geared toward those willing to spend a bit more for a tailored experience.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re into premium wines, especially those from organic vineyards, this tour offers an inside look that you won’t get on larger, crowd-focused excursions. The visits to small bodegas and Pago vineyards mean tastings are often more exclusive and curated, giving you a real sense of place.

The cost, around $225 per person, might seem steep at first glance. But with 9-11 top-quality wines, guided explanations, a historic walk, and a private vehicle, it’s an experience that offers both education and indulgence. Plus, the ability to ship wines or oils you love is a nice bonus.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Stop 1: Requena

Your journey begins with a walk through medieval Requena, where you’ll admire Gothic churches, the 10th-century castle, and the lively plaza. Depending on the day, you might also visit the Moors caves and local artisan shops—these add a tangible sense of history and local flavor. The tour’s focus on culture alongside wine makes it richer than just a tasting.

This part lasts about 40 minutes and is free of charge, making it a gentle start. It’s a good chance to get your bearings and soak in the ambiance of this historic town.

Stop 2: Bodega Chozas Carrascal

Next is a detailed guided visit to a fully organic Pago vineyard and winery. The owner, along with Toni, will guide you through the viticulture practices—think organic farming, the types of fermentation vessels, and barrel aging.

Expect to taste 6+ wines, including premium vintage Cava, barrel-aged reds, whites, and rosados. The tasting includes food pairings with local products, which helps you understand how wine complements regional flavors. The guided tour also covers the Cava production process—what makes it different from Champagne or Prosecco—and takes you into the restored historic home and antique cellars from around 1850.

Travelers have noted the relaxed pace and the interesting facts shared, making it educational as well as enjoyable. The owner might join in, adding a personal touch.

Stop 3: Bodega Sierra Norte

The next stop offers a modern, eco-friendly winery with a different vibe. Set within a former estate, this winery boasts impressive solar panels, a heritage-rich old bodega, and excellent views over vineyards.

Here, you’ll see a heritage winery museum, taste 4-5 wines—including Cava Rosado made from Pinot Noir—and enjoy a maridaje with local produce. The guided visit is led by Toni himself and a local bodeguero, ensuring you get detailed insights.

If needed, the tour could switch to a different high-quality winery like Pago de Los Balagueses, depending on the day’s availability, to guarantee the best experience.

Optional Add-On: Viticultores De La Vega

For those interested in rare Bobal wines, there’s an optional vineyard tasting at Viticultores De La Vega. Here, you’ll taste hand-harvested, natural wines from 120-year-old Bobal vines and premium olive oil made from artisan techniques. This part costs €25 and can be booked in advance if you want to add that special touch.

What Sets It Apart?

Beyond just tasting, this tour offers a comprehensive look into organic wine production and the history of viticulture in the region, dating back to Phoenician times. The visits to historic sights, coupled with exclusive tastings, make it more than a typical vineyard tour.

The small-group/private nature allows for a more relaxed, personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and customize tastings slightly if you have preferences.

Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The entire tour lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including travel time and stops. The use of an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially in warmer months. The price of around $225 per person is reasonable considering the quality of wines, guided explanations, and the multiple stops.

Included are snacks (embutido, cheese, bread, and estate olive oil), tastings of 9-11 wines, and parking fees. Not included are bottled water, lunch, or extra tastings like the Bobal add-on, which is optional.

Since the tour is private, it’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups seeking an in-depth, curated experience. Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book roughly 26 days ahead.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re genuinely interested in organic wines and small-batch producers. If you enjoy learning about wine—not just tasting it—and want a behind-the-scenes look at vineyard and winery operations, this tour hits the mark. The historic elements add cultural depth, making it suitable for those who like a bit of history woven into their wine adventures.

Travelers who value quality over quantity will appreciate the curated tastings, especially the top-tier vintage Cava and the opportunity to taste wines from century-old vines. It’s not the best choice if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual, freeform experience.

FAQ About the Requena Wine Tour

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the focus is on wine and historic sights, it’s primarily geared toward adults. There’s no specific mention of children, and the tasting nature makes it less ideal for young kids.

Can I personalize the wines I taste?
Yes, the guide mentions that tastings can be tailored to your preferences, especially at the Bodega Chozas Carrascal, where the host is experienced in wine 101 and explaining different styles.

What is included in the price?
You get transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, snacks (like embutido, cheese, bread, and olive oil), guided tastings of 9-11 wines and vintage Cava, and parking fees.

Are there options to buy or ship wines?
Absolutely, you can purchase wines or olive oils during the tour, and shipping is available if you fall in love with something.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is around 5 to 6 hours, covering all stops, tastings, and some sightseeing.

What’s the booking process like?
Most people book about 26 days in advance, and the tour is private, so you’ll have a customized experience with your group.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded, quality-focused wine day in Valencia’s outskirts, this Requena tour offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and top wines. The guidance from a seasoned sommelier, combined with visits to small authentic wineries, means you’ll come away with more than just bottles—you’ll have stories and insights that deepen your appreciation for Spanish viticulture.

It’s best suited to travelers who want an educational experience as much as a tasting, and who enjoy exploring historic towns and scenic vineyards. Cost-wise, it’s an investment, but considering the premium wines and personalized approach, many find it worthwhile.

This tour strikes a good balance—educating, indulging, and exploring—making it one of the more compelling options for wine lovers visiting Valencia.