More information on Rioja Alavesa

Rioja Alavesa is a wine-producing region located in the Basque Country, in northern Spain. Its history dates back to the Roman era, and it has been a renowned wine-producing area since the 19th century. The region's wineries are known for their high-quality red wines, which are made primarily from the Tempranillo grape variety. Rioja Alavesa's vineyards are spread over a range of altitudes, from 300 to 800 meters above sea level, offering a unique location for wine tastings.

Rioja Alavesa is a popular destination for wine tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world. The region offers a variety of wine tours, which allow visitors to explore the vineyards, wineries, and cellars of the area's top producers. Many of these tours include wine tastings, where visitors can sample some of the region's most celebrated wines. The wine tourism industry in Rioja Alavesa is well-established, with many hotels and restaurants catering to wine-loving visitors.

Which food to taste in Rioja Alavesa?

The cuisine of Rioja Alavesa is as rich and diverse as its wines. The region is renowned for its lamb dishes, which are often slow-cooked over an open flame. Other local specialties include pintxos, a type of Basque tapa, and bacalao al pil pil, a dish made with cod in a garlic and olive oil sauce. Rioja Alavesa's cuisine is heavily influenced by its Basque heritage, and many of its restaurants serve traditional Basque dishes.

Which wines to taste in Rioja Alavesa?

The primary grape variety grown in Rioja Alavesa is Tempranillo, which is used by wineries to produce the region's renowned red wines. Other grape varieties grown in the region include Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. The wines of Rioja Alavesa are known for their complexity and balance, with flavors ranging from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy, which wine lovers will be able to enjoy during wine tastings.

Which is the best season to visit Rioja Alavesa?

The best time to visit Rioja Alavesa is in the fall, when the grapes are harvested and the wineries are busy with the wine-making process. The months of September and October are particularly popular, as many wineries host special events and harvest festivals during this time, along with wine tours and wine tastings. The weather is mild and sunny in the fall, making it a pleasant time to explore the region's vineyards and countryside.

What things to do in Rioja Alavesa?

In addition to visiting wineries and vineyards, and taking part in wine tours and wine tastings, there are many other attractions to see in Rioja Alavesa. The region is home to several historic towns, including Laguardia, which is known for its medieval walls and underground wine cellars. Other popular attractions include the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Estíbaliz, a beautiful Romanesque church, and the Elciego Castle, a 16th-century fortress that now houses a winery. The region is also popular for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and hot-air balloon rides over the vineyards.