If youâre looking for an unforgettable experience, visiting wineries in Spain is a must-do. From the beautiful vineyards to the delicious wines, thereâs something special about exploring this unique corner of Europe. We toured the wine regions in 2022 and can highly recommend these particular wineries. Whether youâve never been to a winery before or are a seasoned wine connoisseur, here are the best 10 wineries in Spain in 2023.
Wineries in Spain
Spain is one of the worldâs premier wine destinations, and with more than 2.9 million acres planted in vines, itâs no surprise why. Not only are its vineyards home to some of the best wineries in Europe, but you can also find a wide variety of wines from different grape varieties like Tempranillo, Garnacha, Verdejo, and many more. Whether youâre looking for white or red wines, Spain has something for everyone.
The Rioja Region
Rioja is a region in Northern Spain that is known for its red wines. The region produces some of the best and most sought-after wines in Spain, such as Rioja Crianza and Reserva. These wines are made from Tempranillo grapes, which give them their characteristic flavour and aroma.
If youâre planning to visit the Rioja region of Spain, then itâs best to fly into Bilbao Airport (BIO). If you are flying from the UK [click here] for the best flight rates from Flight Centre.
If you are flying from the US –[click here] for the best flight rates and itineraries.
From there, you can take a bus or rent a car and begin your wine-tasting adventure. To check the best car hire rates for all seasons from multiple suppliers in Spain [click here].
For best places to stay in the Rioja region click here or see the end of this blog post.
If youâre planning on taking a trip to Spain any time soon and want to experience some of the best wineries in the country, I have some great pointers for you…
Here are some of the best wineries in the Rioja region in Spain that every wine lover should visit:
Alavesa Province â in Rioja:
Lava is a small province of the north Spanish Basque country. The lush vegetation around the area gives the area a rustic feel. While Lava is the lowest populated province in the autonomous Basque country, it has established its name as part of the renowned Rioja vineyard region known as Rioja wines.
Part of lava – known as Rioja Alavesa. Among these subregions, Rioja Winelands is the smallest of its three subregions. This is Rioja’s most compact city with 264 wineries and 18 municipalities. Despite these limitations, their wines rank amongst the most beautiful wineries in the Rioja area.
1. Bodega Contador in Rioja:
Bodega Contador is a family-run winery located in the heart of Rioja, and its wines are some of the best youâll find anywhere in Spain. Their range includes fruity whites, powerful reds, and even sparkling varieties that you can enjoy while tasting their delicious food pairings.
Their tasting tours are a perfect way to experience the best that Rioja has to offer and get an up-close look at their traditional vineyards. Visitors can choose from a variety of wine tastings, including some exclusive vintages that are only available to tour participants. From the moment you enter Bodega Contadorâs grounds, youâll feel transported to a different time and place.
2. Bodegas RODA in Rioja:
Located just outside LogroĂąo, this iconic winery has been producing top-notch wines for over 40 years. They specialize in Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva styles from Tempranillo grapes grown at their estate vineyards. If youâre lucky enough to get a seat at one of their exclusive wine-tasting events, you wonât be disappointed. Their wines have intense aromas and flavours that reflect the unique terroir of Rioja, along with excellent ageing potential. And while youâre there, don’t forget to check out the winery’s visitor centre, which houses a collection of artworks from around the world.
If youâd like to get an even closer look at their production process, you can book a tour of their facility and learn all about how the wines are made. The tour is followed by a tasting of some of their best vintages, with a selection of regional snacks. Itâs an exceptional experience that will leave you with a lifelong appreciation for wine and its culture in Spain.
Of course, no visit to Bodegas RODA is complete without a tasting of their signature wines. Their Crianza and Reserva styles are full-bodied reds with notes of dark fruit, while their Gran Reserva offers an intense yet elegant flavour profile with nuances of leather, tobacco, and spices.
3. Bodegas Muga in Rioja:
Housed in an historic 19th-century winery, Bodegas Muga produces some of the countryâs most prestigious wines. The estate tour is a must-do for any wine connoisseur looking to experience one of Spainâs top wineries and sample some of their award-winning reds. With over 2000 acres of vineyards, Bodegas Muga has an impressive range of wines, from robust reds to light and sparkling whites.
Visitors can explore the wineryâs cellars and taste some of their incredible wines while learning about the winemaking process. During the tour, guests are taken through the traditional ageing process of each wine in wooden barrels and have the chance to learn about the unique terroir of Rioja. Once the tour is complete, guests can sample three different Muga wines from their tasting room and find new favourites.
Bodegas Muga also offers several different experiences, including a wine workshop where visitors can learn how to blend and taste wines like a pro, as well as grape-harvesting and blending experiences for true wine lovers.
No visit to Bodegas Muga would be complete without a trip to their restaurant, La Rioja. Here, guests can indulge in the delicious regional cuisine and sample some of the wineryâs finest wines while enjoying views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside. For another insight into Spanish winemaking, La Rioja also offers a wine-pairing menu that provides guests with the opportunity to discover new flavours and combinations.
Whether youâre a novice or an experienced wine lover, Bodegas Muga is sure to be one of your most memorable winery experiences in Spain. With its fascinating history, top-notch wines and incredible hospitality, youâll be sure to leave this majestic estate with a newfound appreciation of Spanish winemaking.
4. Bodegas Ysios in Rioja:
Another fantastic winery located in the region of La Rioja is Bodegas Ysios. This modern and contemporary winery boasts stunning views of the landscape and was designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Ysios specializes in producing some of the finest wines in Spain, with reds and whites that are sure to please any palate.
As part of the tour, guests can explore the wineryâs state-of-the-art ageing cellars and learn about their unique winemaking process from some of the best winemakers in the business. From there, visitors can sample some of Ysiosâ award-winning wines in their tasting room before enjoying a delightful lunch at their onsite restaurant. During your visit to Bodegas Ysios, youâll also get the chance to explore the vineyards and learn about the different varietals used to create these top-notch wines.
If youâre looking for a truly unique and unforgettable wine experience in Spain, then Bodegas Ysios should definitely be on your list of places to visit. With its stunning architecture, excellent wines and delicious food, it’s sure to become one of your favourite wineries in the country.
5. Bodega Tondonia in La Rioja:
Bodega Tondonia is another great winery to visit in Spain, located in the picturesque town of La Rioja. Their vineyards have been producing some of the finest wines in the region since 1877, and their portfolio includes both classic and modern varietals. The winery offers visitors the opportunity to participate in educational tasting experiences, which include tastings of their signature wines; tours of their cellars with a guided explanation about how they process and age their wines; and even private dinners with chefs who pair gourmet food courses with Tondoniaâs finest bottles.
A visit to this winery is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more of their exquisite wines.
Aside from the educational and engaging experiences available at Bodega Tondonia, they also offer a variety of other activities to visitors.
The winery has an onsite shop where you can purchase bottles of your favourite wines and take them home with you as souvenirs. They have a museum that tells the story of the estateâs history through artefacts, photographs, and videos. And for those looking to get even more out of a visit to Bodega Tondonia, they offer exclusive guided tours that take you right into the vineyards. Here, you can learn about their eco-friendly winemaking processes and sample some of the best wines in La Rioja before enjoying a delicious meal prepared with local ingredients at the wineryâs restaurant.
Bodega Tondonia is the perfect place to spend an afternoon wine tasting and exploring the stunning landscapes of La Rioja.
Whether youâre a beginner or a connoisseur, Bodega Tondonia offers something for everyone. Their knowledgeable staff can help guide your experience so that you get the most out of your visit. With great wine, delicious food, and beautiful views, itâs easy to see why Bodega Tondonia is one of the best wineries in Spain. So if youâre looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, make sure to add Bodega Tondonia to your list of places to visit.
Guided tours including wineries in Rioja and wine tasting
You can book some highly rated wine tasting tours here: click here
Discover the heart of the Capital City of Vitoria. Then, la Rioja wine region, the charming medieval village of Laguardia, including a guided visit to a traditional cellar with wine tasting.
Explore Vitoria-Gasteiz, with a walking part into the heart of the city. We will learn about its history and modern-day importance as the Capital of the Basque Country. During the tour we will taste some quality local chocolates. Visit as well La Rioja region, the heartland of Spain’s most famous wine industry. On the way we will admire the views of a sea of vineyards set on rolling hills.
Stop at the charming medieval village of Laguardia for a walking tour around the historic quarter. Enjoy as well a visit to a traditional winery, learn about the production of wine in this region and enjoy a tasting of wines at the end. Have as well free time for lunch in Laguardia.
- We will discover the heart of Vitoria in a walking tour
- Panoramic amazing vineyard views of Rioja region
- Enjoy the charming streets and corners of the medieval Laguardia
- Taste Basque quality chocolates
- Taste quality special Rioja wines at a traditional winery
6. Bodegas Martin Codax in Galicia:
For those looking for a truly unique tasting experience, Bodegas Martin Codax in Galicia should be on the top of your list. This family-owned winery has been producing award-winning wines since the late 1800s and their vineyards are spread across some of the most stunning landscapes in Spain.
Martin Codax offers a variety of tasting experiences that include tours of their cellars, tastings of their crianza, reserva and gran reserva wines, and private dinners with gastronomy experts. For those looking to learn more about the history and culture of Spanish wine, Martin Codax also offers a Vignoble Experience, which includes historic tours of the region and educational tastings under the guidance of their wine experts.
With an array of awards and accolades, Bodegas Martin Codax is truly one of the best wineries to visit in Spain.
The winery has won numerous awards, including the Great Gold Medal at the International Wine Challenge in 2016 and the âBest White Wineâ award from Vinus Magazine in 2015. Their wines have received praise from critics around the world as well, with many describing them as âcomplex yet elegantâ and âgreatly balanced.â The winery features single-varietal wines such as AlbariĂąo, Treixadura and Loureiro, as well as blends of different varieties.
The tasting room at Bodegas Martin Codax is an experience in itself. The contemporary space features a romantic fireplace, comfortable seating, and beautiful views of the vineyards. Visitors can also sample some of the wineryâs rarer wines in the âfrom the cellarâ room. Here, guests can try some of the wineryâs older vintages as well as explore their current releases.
Visiting Bodegas Martin Codax is a must for anyone looking to experience some of Spainâs finest wines and views. Their tastings combine the perfect mix of education and entertainment, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. Their dedication to quality and innovation make them one of the best wineries to visit in Spain.
For those looking for a truly special wine-tasting experience, Bodegas Martin Codax is an ideal destination. Whether youâre a beginner or a connoisseur, youâll be sure to find something to suit your taste. With its stunning landscape, award-winning wines and unique experiences, Bodegas Martin Codax is an unforgettable destination for any wine lover.
Book a wine tour in this region:
- Explore the south Galician rivers with an incredible boat trip
- Enjoy mussels and wine for free onboard
- Visit old Galician villages famous for their wine
- Book here
Stop at O Grove Town, the perfect village for spending time in tranquility, and experiencing the sensations of the real and genuine Galicia.
Enjoy the rural atmosphere away from tourism and have a pleasant break and Galician meal. Take a walk through the vineyards of the very prestigious AlbariĂąo.
Have the opportunity to learn about the production of this excellent wine as well as engage in a tasting of three wines of the denomination Rias Baixas in good company.
Next, stop at the shrine of âla Lanzada.â Get a full overview of this mystical place, established in the 9th century, and take a beautiful walk.
Cross part of the bay of Poio, and see beauty contained on a giant rock upon which it is built. See the granaries that surround it, the houses overlooking the sea, and the several stone crosses typical of Galicia, called Cruceiros, which are on the site.
Tour the characteristic streets and squares of this place, and have the possibility to take a real and authentic journey through time, as well as visit an area of great ecological value.
Next stop at the island of Toja, famous for the production of soap and for its hot springs, located in an area called Red Natura 2000.
Discover a small museum of the old soap factory and a chapel completely covered with shells. End with a tour of the sea, during which you will admire and face directly the production of mussels, oysters, and scallops, making different stops to contemplate the watering holes.
Taste steamed mussels in great quantity accompanied by one of the best local AlbariĂąo wines (Condes de Albarei) and shots of Crema de Orujo. Book here.
Find some amazing places to stay in the Galicia region – by clicking here.
6. Bodegas Chivite in Navarra:
Founded in 1647, this family winery is one of the oldest producers of DOCa wines (wines from designated areas) in Spain. If you visit them, you can take part in a variety of activities such as guided tours, wine-tasting workshops, and even horse rides through the vineyards!
They have a selection of red, white, and rosĂŠ wines â all made from Tempranillo, Grenache, Viura, and Macabeo grapes. Their award-winning wines include the Gran Feudo Reserva and the Familia Chivite Coleccion 125.
The winery also has two restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine, as well as an Italian-style pavilion. The stunning grounds are perfect for taking a stroll and admiring the beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.
At Bodegas Chivite, you can taste some of Spain’s best wines in a beautiful setting while learning about the history of winemaking in Navarra. It is one of the best wineries to visit on your Spanish wine-tasting adventure!
7. Txomin Etxaniz Winery in Basque Country:
Situated high atop a hill near San Sebastian, this winery offers breathtaking views over its picturesque vineyards and provides visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether itâs sampling some of the best wines in Spain or simply admiring the stunning views, you wonât be disappointed.
The winery produces a wide variety of red, white and rosĂŠ wines made from Garnacha, Hondarribi Zuri, Tempranillo and Viura grapes. Their award-winning Txomin Etxaniz Tinto is aged for 20 months in French oak barrels â an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
At the winery, you can also explore the cellars and learn about the history of wine-making in the Basque Country. You can even take part in their âWinemaker for a Day’ experience â where you get to try your hand at creating your unique blend!
Txomin Etxaniz Winery is one of the best wineries to visit in Spain and a great spot for both beginners and experienced wine tasters to enjoy the best that Basque Country has to offer. With its stunning views, delicious wines, knowledgeable staff, and unique experiences, itâs no wonder why this is one of the top wineries to visit in Spain.
For the best rates on Basque Country accommodation click here.
8. Penedès in Catalonia:
Penedès is a popular wine region in Spain and Catalonia. Its worldwide reputation was gained through producing “cavĂĄ”, Spanish sparkling wine brewed with traditional Champagne techniques. Penededès encompasses portions of different cities and districts in Barcelona, Tarragona. In Barcelona it was Alt Penendès a capital at Vila Franca del Penenedès Garraf a capital at Vilnova de Geltre and Anoia a capital in Igualana. In Tarragona: Baix Penedes with capital Vendirl and Altcamp with capital Valls.
While in Penedès, take a tour of the family-run vineyards to get an insight into the production process and learn about traditional winemaking methods. You’ll also have the chance to sample some of their award-winning wines â from reds and whites to sparkling varieties. Sant SadurnĂ dâAnoia is home to several well-known wineries, such as Cava Freixenet and CodornĂu. At the latter, you can take a tour of their impressive underground cellars and even go on a hot air balloon flight for the ultimate wine-tasting experience!
If you’re looking for an even more exclusive experience, then head to Cavas Hill. Located in the heart of Penedès, this private winery offers personalized visits to its vineyards. You’ll have the chance to explore the facility and learn about their traditional winemaking techniques as well as sample some of their best wines. The views from Cavas Hill are also breathtaking, making it a great spot for photos!
And for all you red wine lovers out there, visit one of the region’s most iconic wineries â Torres. Located in Pacs del Penedes, Torres is well known for its production of quality red wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. You can also take a tour of their cellars and go on guided tastings to learn more about the traditional styles and flavours associated with Penedès.
After a long day of winery visits, relax and enjoy the local gastronomy at one of the many traditional restaurants in the area. With its rich heritage and passionate wine-makers, Penedes is truly a must-visit destination for wine lovers looking to sample some of Spain’s best wines!
9. Albet I Noya in Catalonia:
One of the best wineries to visit in Spain is Albet I Noya, located in the region of Catalonia. Founded in the 1960s, this family-run winery has quickly become one of the countryâs most renowned estates and its wines are enjoyed by wine lovers around the world. Albet i Noya is home to a wide range of wines, from fruity and light-bodied reds to their complex and full-bodied whites. Touring the winery, visitors will be able to experience the unique terroir of Catalonia as they explore its vineyards and taste some of its best wines.
The tasting room at Albet I Noya is a great place to experience the wineryâs offerings as well as learn more about its history and winemaking process. Several wine-tasting packages are offered for those interested in learning more about Albet I Noya’s wines.
Visitors can also enjoy delicious food pairings with their wines, making for a truly unforgettable experience. By visiting Albet I Noya, wine enthusiasts can learn more about Cataloniaâs winemaking tradition while enjoying some of the best wines in Spain. So make sure to add Albet I Noya to your list of must-visit wineries!
While here, why not consider a half day guided tour to the Montserrat mountains together with a wine tasting and tapa experience?
And, of course, no trip to Catalonia would be complete without a tour of the Sagrada Familia to see Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece.
For the best places to stay in the Catalonia region, click here.
10. Tio Pepe – Jerez de la Frontera:
Tio Pepe is a family-owned winery located in the heart of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. This idyllic spot has been producing some of the finest sherry wines since 1835 and offers tours and wine tastings for those looking to learn more about this unique style of Spanish wine.
Visitors can also take in the beautiful vistas of the region, including its stunning vineyards and rolling hills. After your visit, be sure to pick up a bottle of their award-winning Tio Pepe cream sherry. It makes for a great souvenir and is the perfect way to remember your Spanish winery adventure.
Tio Pepe takes their winemaking seriously and as such, they are committed to producing the very best wines possible. Their vintners use traditional methods for fermentation and aging and they also employ innovative techniques to improve the quality of their product. The result is a range of delicious sherries that boast complex aromas and flavours.
Tio Pepe takes their winemaking seriously and as such, they are committed to producing the very best wines possible. Their vintners use traditional methods for fermentation and aging and they also employ innovative techniques. The result is a range of delicious sherries that boast complex aromas and flavours. Whether youâre a sherry connoisseur or just looking to enjoy something special, Tio Pepe is sure to please.
Visitors can schedule private tours of the winery, which offer a unique opportunity to learn about the production process and sample some of their best wines.
When is the best time to visit wineries in Spain?
If you’re looking for the perfect time to visit Spain’s wineries and vineyards, there is no wrong choice. From March through May and September through November, temperatures are mild, flowers are blooming, and the vineyards are alive with activity.
During the summer months of June through August, temperatures get quite hot in some parts of Spain. Although this may not be the best time for vineyard visits, it is a great opportunity to enjoy some of Spain’s beaches and coastline.
The ideal time to explore Spanish wineries and vineyards really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to experience wine tastings in smaller wineries, then early spring or late fall are your best bets as these months provide milder climates and less crowded vineyards.
For those who want to relax and enjoy a glass of great Spanish wines, summertime may be more suitable as you can enjoy the sunshine in an outdoor setting.
If you’re looking for variety, then it’s best to visit during harvest season, typically from September through October. This time of year is when Spain’s wineries are at their busiest and you can experience the full spectrum of wine production. During this time, you’ll get to see how grapes are picked, fermented, and aged before bottling up into that delicious glass of vino!
Where are the best places to stay when visiting wineries in Spain?
For the best places to stay in the Rioja region, we like these options – available all year, various star rating, with and without cancellation options, plus optional breakfast – click here
For great places to stay in the Basque Country hotels and vacation rentals: click here
For the best places to stay in the Catalonia region, click here.
We found some amazing places to stay in the Galicia region here.
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Visit https://www.thetravelclub.info for more information about how to get up to 3 weeks free travel per year, and get your membership for free.