Rioja Wine Trip 2024

A Gastronomic and Wine Journey Through Spain’s Rioja Region

Our second trip to Spain’s famed wine regions was nothing short of extraordinary. Filled with unforgettable wine tastings, culinary delights, and stunning scenery, this journey took us from Madrid to the heart of Rioja, uncovering the finest wineries and gourmet experiences along the way.

We landed in Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, ready to begin our ascent to the Rioja region. On our way, we made a brief stop in Ribera del Duero at Bodegas Protos. Here, we explored both the historical cellars and their modern facilities. The highlight was a premium wine tasting, where we savored the excellence that Ribera del Duero is renowned for.

Following our winery visit, we drove to Cepa21, a nearby gourmet restaurant. There, we enjoyed a private, fully-loaded culinary experience, with each dish perfectly paired with local wines. As night fell, we headed to Logroño, the heart of Rioja, ready to rest for the adventures ahead.

The next morning, we visited Marques de Caceres for an exclusive private tour and premium tasting. The experience showcased the winery’s commitment to quality and tradition, leaving a lasting impression on our palates.

Our journey continued to the legendary Bodegas Marques de Riscal, where we enjoyed a premium tour of their innovative facilities. The culinary highlight awaited at the Marques de Riscal Hotel, a masterpiece designed by Frank O. Gehry, offering an extraordinary dining experience.

The following day, we explored Haro, in the northwestern part of La Rioja. Our first visit was at Bodega Muga: Known for its own cooperage, Muga exemplifies the traditional winemaking practices essential to the region’s appellation regulations. We continued our tour with a visit at Lopez de Heredia Viña Tondonia: A true artisanal winery rooted in tradition, where every bottle reflects decades of dedication and craftsmanship.

We concluded the day with a late lunch at a local restaurant, featuring an impressive wine cellar stocked with rare vintages—a perfect blend of culinary and oenological delights.

Our next stop, next day, was the multiawarded Marques de Murrieta. Every visit to this winery feels like stepping back in time, yet witnessing the state-of-the-art fermentation cellar reminded us of the perfect harmony between tradition and innovation. Natalia, our knowledgeable guide, led us through the winery with warmth and expertise, culminating in a professional tasting of their exquisite wines.

We then visited Cune Viña Real, known for its barrel-shaped facility. Cune unites century-old wineries across seven Spanish regions, sharing a culture of excellence. Our visit ended with a private lunch, where dishes were thoughtfully paired with their wines, once again showcasing Rioja’s culinary brilliance.

On our final day, we took a scenic drive through Parque Natural Sierra de Cebollera, arriving at Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Migeul de Cervantes.

This journey highlighted not only Rioja’s wine and food culture but also its rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Over the years, Rioja has evolved into one of Spain’s premier gastronomic destinations. While it has become more luxurious and expensive, the region continues to offer unparalleled wine experiences and culinary adventures, leaving us with lasting memories of taste, culture, and tradition.