Discover the essence of Rioja through an exclusive wine and culinary journey from Bilbao with Sortalde. Savor top wines, gourmet cuisine, and stunning vineyard views in a personalized, expert-led experience.
Discover the essence of Rioja through an exclusive wine and culinary journey from Bilbao with Sortalde. Savor top wines, gourmet cuisine, and stunning vineyard views in a personalized, expert-led experience.
Book with Sortalde
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Sortalde · Donostia-San Sebastián, País Vasco
Starting from Bilbao, this private Rioja wine tour with Sortalde transforms a typical day into a full sensory journey. The trip begins with a scenic drive through rolling vineyards and ancient cork oak groves, setting the stage for a deep dive into Rioja's rich winemaking heritage. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a prestigious family-owned winery, renowned for crafting some of Spain’s most distinguished wines, including the celebrated Gran Reserva 890. The guided tasting spotlight features an assortment of eleven exceptional wines, each with distinctive character and history, from crisp whites to robust reds. The tour is paired with a meticulously curated seven-course lunch, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry, perfectly complemented by five select glasses of wine. This experience isn’t just about sipping; it’s a cultural immersion into Rioja’s history, tradition, and modern craft. The setting itself commands admiration — the winery’s stunning natural backdrop makes for memorable photos and offers a tranquil escape from city life. Why this trip stands out: it combines exclusivity, culinary excellence, and the chance to gain insider knowledge directly from passionate local producers. It’s ideal for wine lovers and curious travelers who want an intimate experience with top-tier wines and a taste of regional culture. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your curiosity, this Rioja tour from Bilbao promises an authentic taste of northern Spain’s wine craftsmanship, made even more special by the personal touch from the team at Sortalde.
easy.
4–5 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Yes, you can buy bottles of your favorite wines directly from the winery during your visit.
Transportation from Bilbao is typically arranged as part of the tour package, but please confirm when booking.
Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary restrictions for the lunch.
Group sizes are limited for a personalized experience, typically around 8-12 guests.
The focus on wine tasting makes this experience ideal for adults; children are not typically included.
Dress comfortably for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with layers recommended.
The Rioja region has been producing wine since Roman times, with many estates dating back centuries, shaping Spain’s wine culture.
The winery employs sustainable practices, including water conservation and organic vineyard management.
Sortalde is a private tour operator based in Donostia‑San Sebastián, País Vasco, offering curated luxury experiences across the Basque Country and the neighboring French Basque coast. The company specializes in private guided tours that combine art, history, gastronomy and coastal landscapes. Signature experiences include private walks through San Sebastián with visits to Chillida Leku and the Peine del Viento, exclusive access to the San Telmo Museum paired with pintxos and local txakolí, and premium pintxo routes with Spanish D.O. wine pairings. From Bilbao departures Sortalde organizes full‑day itineraries to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka and Gernika with a gourmet multi‑course menu. Rioja wine tours from Bilbao and San Sebastián feature visits to family wineries, tastings of Gran Reserva 890 and extended multi‑course lunches. Cultural highlights include guided visits to the Guggenheim Museum and Bilbao’s Casco Viejo, often paired with Michelin‑starred dining. Luxury transport is part of select offerings, with private Mercedes‑Benz transfers mentioned for coastal routes. For visitors seeking a cross‑border experience, Sortalde runs VIP gourmet tours to Bayonne, Biarritz and Saint‑Jean‑de‑Luz focusing on oysters, Bayonne ham and regional specialties. Tours target travelers who prioritize private, high‑quality service, expert local guides and curated culinary moments. Sortalde has been featured on The Adventure Collective and presents a portfolio of private, high‑intent experiences designed to showcase the Basque region’s art, wine, coastal scenery and gastronomy. Meal experiences range from six‑course and seven‑course degustations to a ten‑course Michelin tasting, with gourmet menus in historic farmhouses paired with select local wines and attentive service included daily.
Book with Sortalde