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Viavinum, The Wine Tour Company of Spain

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LA RIOJA

Wine & Culinary Weekend...
for enthusiasts of Frank O. Gehry´s design
Dates: 20-22 April / 8-10 June / 10-12 August / 5-7 October / 23-25 November 2007

The Wine Region

We cannot talk about Spanish wine without delaying over the wines of La Rioja. This vine growing region and its wines deserve, no doubt about it, the international prestige that they possess.

The D.O.C. Rioja is extended across great part of the Riojan Community, the southern of Alava, and some towns in the southern part of Navarra. The diversity in soil and climate has led to classifying this wine region in three sub-areas: Rioja Alta, Rioja Baja, and Rioja Alavesa. The D.O.C. Rioja has over 57,000 hectares of vines, from which 85 % is produced as red wine.

The Rioja Alta produces red wines with medium body, balanced structure and excellent bouquet. Tempranillo is the predominant variety used to make their red wines, especially indicated for ageing in oak barrels.

The Rioja Baja elaborates red and rose wines, out of the Garnacha grape variety, which result with a strong fragrance, light and fresh in the mouth, with medium alcohol content.

The Rioja Alavesa produces red wines with the Tempranillo grape variety which either the young ones as well as the aged ones, achieve very high levels of quality. They are wines with a balanced acidity and an average alcohol content. Using the Tempranillo as base, with small and wisely studied coupages of Garnacha, Mazuelo and Viura, the greatest Reserva and Gran Reserva wines are created; wines that are on the level with the most famous ones in the world.

The Tour

In this trip of three days to Rioja, VIAVINUM brings you to the most recognized and prestigious winemaking region in Spain. It is famous for its wines both nationally and internationally. You will enjoy the Rioja’s marvellous wines and exquisite gastronomy. In addition, you will be able to admire the cultural monuments and sights that the area has to offer.

The group will visit two great wineries where they will learn about the wine elaboration process and taste its wines. Also, a wine tasting course will be given in which will be explained the different phases in wine tasting.

You will enjoy as well of an exquisite gastronomy elaborated with prime quality products of the region.

Additionally, visit to an impressive Museum focused on Wine Culture where a great variety of sculptures and other artistic old works are shown.

Accommodations will be arranged in an enchanting 4 star Hotel surrounded by vineyards and known for its outstanding service and quality. There you will be able to relax and enjoy your weekend of wine and culture.

The Itinerary

First Day
Meet at a central point in Madrid midday in order to depart for Rioja Alavesa.
Arrival and check-in at hotel in the early evening.
Magnificent dinner in the hotel.

Second Day
After a wonderful buffet breakfast, you will take part in the wine tasting course as introduction to this oenological journey.
Following, you will enjoy a fantastic regional lunch at restaurant with splendid views which cuisine is elaborated with prime natural products.

After lunch, time to visit the great Museum dedicated to Wine Culture. Additionally, guided visit of the winery and tasting.

Back to the hotel.
For dinner, you are free to make your own arrangements.

Third Day
breakfast and hotel check-out
Cultural visit in the charming villa of Laguardia.

After the visit, you will be able to visit one of the most impressive wineries of design which elaborates excellent wines in the Rioja Alavesa, aside from having incredible avant-garde facilities. Wine tasting. Following gourmet tasting at one of the best restaurants in La Rioja, located at the wine-hotel, professionally advised by one of the best chefs of Spain.

As you move from one place to the next, you will be sure to enjoy the beautiful countryside. The Rioja region is extremely unique in that it is full of vineyards and historical monuments, even though it is the smallest autonomous community in Spain.

Return to Madrid.

Important notes:
- Subject to availability.
- We strongly advise that you book one month ahead of time.
- Consult departures from other cities or other dates (groups).
- This wine tour can be made without Viavinum´s transport on any other date. If you prefer, you could also enjoy of this tour on your own vehicle at your own pace, or we could arrange a car rental with AVIS or HERTZ.