Imagine walking into a 16th-century cellar that’s been quietly aging wine for centuries, and then having the chance to taste some of that same wine, right where it’s been stored all these years. That’s exactly what the Tasting in Underground Winery (Draft) experience offers—an intimate peek into the world of traditional wine-making, set in a historic underground tunnel beneath Laguardia.
We’ve come across this tour as a promising, uniquely atmospheric way to learn about local wines without the crowds or commercial fuss. What really draws us in is the private setting—a secluded space with plenty of history—and the fact that it features the owner’s own wines, giving a genuine, personal touch. Plus, the snack pairing adds that extra flavor to the tasting, making it more than just a sip-and-go.
One thing to keep in mind is that this experience lasts only about 30 minutes, so it’s quite short. If you’re looking for a deep dive into wine production or a lengthy tasting session, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s more of a quick, atmospheric encounter—perfect if you’re on the move or want a quick taste of local tradition.
This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate history and authenticity, enjoy private experiences, and are curious about local wine production. It’s not suited for children under 18, but if you’re after a personal, off-the-beaten-path wine experience, this one could be just right.
Key Points
- Historic Setting: You visit a private, 16th-century underground cellar, adding a real sense of place.
- Authentic Wines: Tasting wines produced by the family behind the cellar means genuine, personal flavors.
- Short and Sweet: The experience lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick but memorable highlight.
- Inclusive Snacks: A simple pecking with the tasting enhances the overall experience.
- Private Group: Small, private groups mean more personalized attention.
- Price Point: At $23 per person, it’s a reasonable way to enjoy authentic wine in a special setting.
What You Can Expect from the Underground Winery Tasting
When you step into the Casa Peque hotel in Laguardia, you’re stepping into a world where history and wine intertwine. The highlight here is the private underground space, a tunnel-like cellar from the 16th century, a relic from medieval times when such tunnels served as protection and, later, as storage for wine.
These tunnels join over 300 similar caverns around Laguardia, but this one is exclusive—a private space with many years of stories. Once inside, you’ll quickly notice the cool, damp air and the stone walls that have soaked up centuries of wine-making tradition.
The wine tasting itself is straightforward but meaningful. You’ll sample wines produced by the family that owns the cellar, which gives a real sense of connection to the land and the craft. The wines are carefully selected for their quality, and many reviewers highlight the excellent selection of wines offered. One guest, Isabel, noted, “Both the treatment was unbeatable, and the experience… I recommend it.”
The snack pairing is a simple pecking platter—a few local bites that complement the wines. It’s nothing lavish but enough to enhance the tasting without overpowering the flavors. The staff, including the owners, are praised for their friendliness and genuine hospitality. One reviewer even said, “The treatment was unbeatable and the owners’ kindness made it even more special.”
Timing and group size are also worth mentioning. The tour is private, which means your group gets personalized attention, and the duration—around 30 minutes—is perfect if you’re fitting in a quick cultural stop or just want a taste of wine history with minimal fuss.
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The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Accessibility
At $23 per person, this experience is quite affordable for such an intimate and authentic experience. It’s an overall good deal considering you get a private tour, tasting, and snacks—especially in a location as atmospheric as an underground cellar.
The duration is just about 30 minutes, so plan accordingly—this isn’t a lengthy wine tour. It’s perfect for a short stop between other sightseeing or as a quick cultural highlight.
Language options include Basque, Spanish, and English, making it accessible for a variety of visitors. The activity is not suitable for children under 18, which makes sense given the focus on wine tasting.
The booking process is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—great if your plans might shift last minute.
The Experience: What’s It Like?
Walking into Casa Peque, you’re immediately transported to a different era. The private tunnel, with its stone walls and cool air, creates a cozy, almost secretive atmosphere. You’re led to a small space where the owner, who produces the wines, shares stories about the history and production.
The tasting includes several of the owner’s selected wines, each with its own character. You might notice that the wines are well-balanced and showcase some local flavor nuances. The snack pairing is a modest, but thoughtful addition—complementing the wines without overwhelming them.
The host’s warmth and genuine pride in their wines come through, making the experience feel personal and authentic. As one reviewer, Victor and Isa, mentioned, “The treatment was unbeatable, and the owners’ kindness surprised me.”
Given the short duration, it’s a quick but rich peek into the winemaking world, ideal if you’re short on time or want a cozy, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is especially suited for travelers interested in history and authenticity, wanting a private, intimate tasting, or seeking a quick cultural snapshot. If you’re a wine lover wanting to try local wines in a setting with a story—without the crowds or commercialized tours—this is a solid choice.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a longer, in-depth exploration of wine production or a sprawling tasting session, you might find this short tour a bit thin. It’s more about the ambiance and a few quality sips than a comprehensive wine education.
Families with older children might find it an interesting stop if they’re into wine or history, but it’s definitely not suitable for children under 18.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For those wanting to experience authentic wine in a historic setting, this underground tasting in Laguardia offers a rare glimpse into traditional winemaking—paired with a warm, personal touch from the owners. The private environment and quality wines make it stand out, especially considering the very reasonable price.
If you enjoy short, atmospheric experiences that combine history, local culture, and good wine, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a personal touch and want to avoid overly commercialized tours.
However, if you’re seeking a more extensive wine journey or a lengthy tasting, you might want to look for options with longer durations or guided explanations. Still, for a quick, charming encounter with local wine, it’s a memorable choice.
Overall, it’s a value-packed experience that offers something genuinely different—something you’ll remember long after the last sip.
TASTING IN UNDERGROUND WINERY (DRAFT)
“Both the treatment was unbeatable and the experience…..it was excellent on the part of the owner and his wife…I was surprised by the treatment …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 18 since it involves wine tasting.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick but meaningful experience.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the draft visit, wine tasting, and snack pairing.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, offering a more personalized experience.
What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is available in Basque, Spanish, and English.
How much does it cost?
It’s priced at $23 per person, which is quite reasonable for the personal experience.
Where do I meet for the tour?
You start at Casa Peque and end back at the same meeting point.
What makes this wine tasting special?
You taste wines produced by the owners in a private, historic underground cellar, adding authenticity.
Is there a lot of walking involved?
No, the activity mostly involves sitting in the cellar for the tasting.
If you’re after a bit of local flavor, history, and good wine in a private setting, this underground cellar experience could be a surprisingly charming highlight of your Laguardia trip.
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