Complete winery experience: visit, tasting and traditional food

Exploring the Solar de Samaniego Winery: A Blend of Wine, Art, and Culture

Imagine stepping into a winery that’s as much a work of art as it is a place where exceptional wine is crafted. That’s the vibe you get from the Solar de Samaniego winery in Laguardia, located in the heart of the Basque Country. While we haven’t personally been there, reviews paint a vivid picture of a thoughtfully curated experience that combines history, creativity, and flavor all in one package.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the artistic reimagining of the winery, with murals by Guido van Helten transforming industrial spaces into visual stories. Second, the knowledgeable guides—particularly Marta—are praised for making complex processes engaging and accessible. Lastly, the delicious pairing of wine with a traditional Rioja meal makes the experience feel like a proper celebration of local culture.

However, one consideration could be the timing of the visit for those wanting a seamless day—some reviewers mention the challenge of scheduling the visit and dinner separately. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a comprehensive, cultural, and culinary outing. Whether you’re a wine lover, art enthusiast, or curious traveler, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Rioja’s unique character.

Good To Know

• Art and Architecture: The winery’s spaces have been extensively redesigned by renowned artists, making the visit visually captivating.
• Expert Guides: Marta and other guides are known for their friendly, detailed explanations, enriching the visit.
• Wine Tasting Included: Three glasses of wine are served during the tour, allowing you to savor different varieties along the way.
• Traditional Rioja Meal: The experience ends with a paired meal featuring local dishes and the winery’s Crianza wine.
• Value for Money: At around $75, this tour offers a complete package of education, tasting, art, and dining, perfect for those wanting a full experience.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 25 travelers, the atmosphere remains intimate and engaging.

A Complete Breakdown of the Winery Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Bodegas Solar de Samaniego in Elciego around 1 pm, a sensible time that leaves plenty of daylight for the activities. Spanning roughly three hours, it strikes a balance between being thorough without feeling rushed. You’re most likely to enjoy a more personal experience given the group size caps at 25, which encourages interaction and detailed explanations.

Introduction and The Art-Driven Space

Walking into the winery, you’ll notice that the outside doesn’t hint at the treasures inside. Once inside, the space is transformed by artistic murals and contemporary design. The interior, designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán, features a series of wine-literary spaces, including a reading room, a hidden library among bottle racks, and the artistic murals by Guido van Helten in the old warehouses. Each corner invites reflection, making the visit a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Touring the Winemaking Process

The guide—possibly Marta or another knowledgeable team member—walks you through the winemaking process, emphasizing the winery’s history rooted in the family of Félix María de Samaniego. Reviewers comment that explanations are clear and engaging, with some noting that the focus leans on the structural and artistic aspects of the winery, rather than a step-by-step technical overview of winemaking. Still, there’s enough insight to satisfy most curious fans.

Wine Tastings During the Tour

One of the tour’s highlights is the tasting of three different wines. Unlike many tastings that happen all at once at the end, here you’ll sample as you go, which enhances appreciation. Guests often describe the wines as high-quality and well-paired with the surroundings. This approach also allows for a more relaxed tasting experience, encouraging conversation and reflection.

Artistic Features and Murals

The monumental murals by Guido van Helten are a standout, transforming old winery warehouses into vibrant canvases. Reviewers mention that these artworks are “spectacular” and “original,” making the inside of the winery a true gallery that sparks conversation, even among those who aren’t usually into art.

The Traditional Rioja Meal

The tour culminates in a dining room with panoramic vineyard views. Here, a Traditional Menu is served, featuring starters, Riojan-style potatoes, lamb chops with vine shoots, dessert, and coffee. The meal is carefully paired with the winery’s Crianza, which guests find complements the flavors perfectly. Reviewers describe the food as tasty and authentic, adding a genuine local touch to the experience.

Overall Experience and Value

For about $75.59 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package: culture, artistic discovery, quality wine, and a delicious meal. Many reviews praise the friendly guide Marta for her engaging explanations and the cozy yet impressive interior spaces. Guests also appreciate the view of the vineyard, which enhances the sense of connection to the land and the winemaking tradition.

What We Love and What to Consider

What makes this tour special? The artistic transformation of the winery spaces, the personalized guidance, and the delicious pairing of wine and food. It’s clear that Solar de Samaniego isn’t just about wine; it’s about celebrating the culture, history, and creativity of Rioja.

A small drawback to keep in mind: Some guests mention the timing of the visit and dinner being separate can be a bit inconvenient, especially if you prefer a more seamless day. Planning accordingly can help, perhaps by arriving early or staying longer in the area afterwards.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate art and design as much as they love wine, or travelers who want an interactive, multi-sensory experience. It’s also a great choice if you’re interested in local cuisine paired with excellent wines. If you’re traveling in a small group or with family and want a personal touch, the group size makes it even better.

It might be less ideal for visitors seeking an in-depth technical understanding of wine production, as the focus is balanced more on art, ambiance, and tasting.

FAQ

Is transportation to the winery included? No, but the meeting point is clearly indicated at Bodegas Solar de Samaniego, and you should plan your transport accordingly.

How long does the entire tour last? The experience takes approximately three hours, from the start at 1 pm until you finish with dinner.

Are the wines tasted during the visit different from those I can buy? The tour includes three glasses of wine, and reviewers mention that the wines are of high quality, but it isn’t explicitly stated whether they are exclusive or available for purchase.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but since it involves tastings and a meal, it’s best suited for adults or those of legal drinking age.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

What’s the best way to book? It’s recommended to book at least 32 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

The Solar de Samaniego winery tour offers an engaging mix of visual artistry, historical context, quality wine, and traditional cuisine. It’s a well-rounded experience that caters to lovers of culture, art, and fine wine alike. The guided explanations, artistic spaces, and delicious meal make it a valuable outing for those wanting to soak in the essence of Rioja in a relaxed setting.

Perfect for travelers seeking a cultural day out or romantic dinner with a view, this tour stands out as a true highlight in Laguardia. Its blend of sights, tastes, and stories creates a memorable snapshot of Basque Country’s wine culture.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a multi-sensory experience that combines the beauty of art with the craft of winemaking, Solar de Samaniego is a fantastic choice. The thoughtful guides, stunning murals, and delicious food elevate this tour from ordinary to exceptional. Just remember to plan your schedule to enjoy every aspect without rushing.