Logroño: Guided Tour with Tasting of 3 Wines and Appetizer at Viña Ijalba
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Viña Ijalba, founded in 1975 by Dionisio Ruiz Ijalba near Logroño, is a pioneer in Rioja’s organic wine movement, revitalizing traditional winemaking with sustainable practices. Located in the heart of La Rioja, a region renowned for its wine heritage since Roman times, the winery has championed the recovery of minority grape varieties like Maturana Tinta and Graciano, earning accolades for its eco-friendly approach. The Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin, established in 1925, underscores the region’s global reputation for quality wines, with Viña Ijalba’s organic methods setting a modern standard.
The winery’s commitment to biodiversity and natural viticulture reflects Rioja’s centuries-old tradition of harmonizing with the land, blending ancient knowledge with innovation. Its proximity to Logroño, a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, ties it to the region’s cultural and historical fabric, making this tour a deep dive into Rioja’s winemaking legacy.
Highlights
- Discover the pioneering story of Dionisio Ruiz Ijalba and Viña Ijalba’s origins.
- Learn about organic winemaking and the recovery of rare grape varieties.
- Enjoy a tasting of three organic wines paired with a local Rioja appetizer.
- Explore the vineyard, fermentation tanks, and barrel room with expert guidance.
- Experience Rioja’s wine heritage in a sustainable, eco-friendly setting.
Full Description
Immerse yourself in the world of organic winemaking with a 75-minute guided tour of Viña Ijalba, located just outside Logroño in the heart of La Rioja. This experience unveils the winery’s innovative approach, from its sustainable vineyard practices to its award-winning organic wines, offering a blend of tradition and eco-conscious innovation.
Begin at the winery’s natural museum of native grape varieties, where your guide introduces Rioja’s Qualified Designation of Origin and Viña Ijalba’s mission to revive minority grapes. Stroll through the surrounding vineyard, learning about year-round organic cultivation techniques amidst the scenic Rioja landscape. Inside the winery, follow the grape’s journey through fermentation tanks and the oak-filled barrel room, gaining insights into the meticulous process behind organic wine production.
Conclude with a 30-minute tasting of three organic wines, showcasing Viña Ijalba’s signature flavors, paired with a “0 km” appetizer of local Rioja cheese and cured meats. Your guide shares the winery’s philosophy and Dionisio Ruiz Ijalba’s legacy, making this a rich, sensory exploration of La Rioja’s wine culture, perfect for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Why Choose This Experience?
This tour offers an intimate look at Viña Ijalba’s pioneering organic winemaking, blending education, sustainability, and sensory delight in the heart of La Rioja. The small-group format and expert guide ensure a personalized experience, ideal for wine lovers or those eager to explore Rioja’s heritage beyond Logroño’s urban charm.
The tasting of three organic wines with local appetizers elevates the visit, while the focus on eco-friendly practices appeals to environmentally conscious travelers. Affordable and immersive, this tour is a must for anyone seeking to savor Rioja’s flavors and history in an authentic, sustainable setting.
What’s Included
- 45-minute guided tour of Viña Ijalba (vineyard, processing plant, barrel room).
- 30-minute tasting of three organic wines.
- “0 km” appetizer of Rioja cheese and cured meats.
- Expert guide sharing winery history and organic techniques.
- Access to the natural museum of native grape varieties.
Itinerary
- Meet at Viña Ijalba’s reception/shop.
- Tour the natural museum of native grape varieties.
- Guided walk through the vineyard and winery facilities (45 minutes).
- Tasting of three organic wines with local appetizer (30 minutes).
- Note: Itinerary subject to change based on winery operations.
Pricing
From $29 per person
Meeting Point
Meet at Viña Ijalba’s reception/shop, just outside Logroño. If the outer gate is closed, ring the doorbell labeled “Bodegas Viña Ijalba” for entry. Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure punctuality.
How to Get There
- By foot: A 30-minute walk from central Logroño; not recommended due to distance.
- By bus: Line 3 from Logroño’s city center to Polígono Cantabria, a 5-minute walk.
- By taxi: Request drop-off at Viña Ijalba; €8-12 from Logroño center.
- By car: Free parking at the winery; located 10 minutes from Logroño via N-232.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for standing and walking on uneven vineyard terrain.
- Light jacket for the barrel room’s cool temperature.
- ID for age verification (tasting restricted to 18+).
Know Before You Go
- Tour lasts 75 minutes (45 minutes walking, 30 minutes tasting); no seats during the tour.
- Punctuality critical; late arrivals (15+ minutes) forfeit reservations without refund.
- Baby strollers not allowed due to uneven surfaces.
- Moderate standing/walking; not suitable for those with mobility issues.
- Tour operates rain or shine; check winery for rare cancellations.
Reviews
- Yaiza’s engaging tour was fantastic, packed with facts and charm. The organic wines were a highlight!
- Magical vineyard with divine organic wines. A must-visit in Rioja—100% recommended.
- 10-star experience with exquisite wines and Yaiza’s friendly, clear explanations. Truly memorable!
Maps
Contact
FAQ's
What is included in the tour price, and are there any additional costs?
The tour includes a 45-minute guided visit to Viña Ijalba’s vineyard, processing plant, and barrel room, plus a 30-minute tasting of three organic wines paired with a local appetizer (Rioja cheese and cured meats). An expert guide covers the winery’s history and organic methods, with access to the native grape museum. No additional costs apply, as all elements are covered. Optional purchases, like wine bottles or souvenirs at the shop, are extra, ensuring a complete experience at a transparent price.
How long is the tour, and what is the physical demand involved?
The tour lasts 75 minutes: 45 minutes of standing/walking through the vineyard and winery, plus 30 minutes for seated tasting. It involves moderate physical effort, with uneven vineyard terrain and standing in the barrel room, unsuitable for those with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes are essential, and the pace is leisurely but continuous. The tasting offers a relaxed conclusion, making it accessible for most but requiring basic mobility for the full experience.
Is the tour suitable for families with children, and are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not ideal for families with young children, as strollers are prohibited and the 45-minute walking portion may bore kids. The wine tasting is restricted to those 18+, with no non-alcoholic options provided. Older teens interested in wine culture may enjoy the guide’s insights, but children must be accompanied, and the focus on organic viticulture suits adults more. Families might prefer shorter activities in Logroño, as this tour caters to wine enthusiasts.
Can I take photos during the tour, and are there any restrictions?
Photography is allowed throughout the tour, capturing the vineyard’s scenic rows, fermentation tanks, and barrel room ambiance. No restrictions apply for personal cameras or phones, and the guide may suggest prime spots, like the native grape museum. Flash is unnecessary indoors, and tripods could disrupt the group. Stay with the tour to avoid delaying others while photographing. Keep devices charged to document Viña Ijalba’s organic beauty and tasting setup.
What happens if I arrive late or the tour is canceled?
Punctuality is crucial; arrivals more than 15 minutes late without valid reason forfeit the reservation without refund, as the schedule is strict. Contact Viña Ijalba immediately if delayed, though rejoining isn’t guaranteed. If the winery cancels (rare, e.g., operational issues), a full refund or rescheduling is offered. Arrive 15 minutes early at the reception/shop, and confirm transport (taxi or bus) to avoid Logroño’s traffic, ensuring a smooth start to this organic wine adventure.
