HOPLITA and FRIENDS tasting

Introduction

Our review of the HOPLITA and FRIENDS tasting tour in La Rioja explores a unique way to experience wine without leaving the city of Logroño. If you’re after a blend of history, authenticity, and international flair, this small-group experience might be just what you need.

What caught our eye are three standout features: the single-location winery in a centuries-old palace, the diverse wine selection from both Rioja and around the world, and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience genuinely engaging. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a 2-hour tour with a limited group, so if you’re after a more extensive winery visit or a larger crowd, this might feel a bit compact.

This tour suits travelers who love history, enjoy tasting a variety of wines, and prefer a local experience in the heart of a historic city. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, enriching, and tasty insight into Rioja’s wine scene without the hassle of travel outside Logroño.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Unique Location: Only winery in Logroño’s old town, set in a late 15th-century palace.
• Diverse Tastings: Six wines sampled—three from Hoplita and three from international wineries—paired with local products.
• Expert Guides: Passionate guides provide insightful stories about the winery’s history and wine production secrets.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Tasting takes place in a cellar dating from the 12th century, adding historic ambiance.
• Convenient City-Center Meeting Point: No need for extra travel; meet easily next to a large wooden gate.
• Value for Money: For $41, you get a well-rounded experience with both educational and sensory elements.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

A Winery in the Heart of Logroño

The HOPLITA winery holds a special place as the only winemaking operation situated directly within Logroño’s old town. Housed in a former palace from the late 15th century, once owned by the Count of Murillo y Bornos, the building’s history adds a layer of authenticity to the experience. As you step into this historic setting, you’re immediately transported back in time, with stone walls and ancient cellar rooms that have seen centuries of wine-making.

The winery’s roots stretch into the 18th century, when they produced around 20,000 liters of wine—giving you a tangible sense of the long-standing tradition here. During the visit, guides share stories about these origins and how the property’s historic features influence the current wine production.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins with an introduction to the winery’s history and the project behind Hoplita wines. The guide, often praised for their passion and knowledge, will share insights into the grape varieties grown locally and the unique properties of the vineyards. Expect to hear colorful anecdotes—such as how wines were produced back in the 18th century or the secrets behind their current winemaking techniques.

The highlight is the tasting session in the barrel room, located directly in the old cellar. The ambiance here is charming—stone walls, wooden barrels, and subtle lighting create a cozy setting where you can truly appreciate the craftsmanship behind each glass. Tasting six wines in total—three from Hoplita and three from international wineries—gives a broad sense of styles and inspirations. These are paired with local products, which can include cheeses, cured meats, or bread, adding local flavor to the tasting.

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What Makes the Wines Special?

While Hoplita’s own wines are the stars, the inclusion of wines from other countries adds a fascinating dimension. According to reviews, the selection varies daily, which encourages repeat visits or a desire to see what new wines are featured. The guide explains the properties of each wine, highlighting differences in grape varieties, regions, and production styles.

The Guided Tour and Personal Touch

One of the most appreciated aspects, as reflected in reviews, is the knowledgeable guidance provided by passionate guides. Travelers mention that guides actively share storytelling and secrets about wine making, making the experience far more engaging than just sipping in silence. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures everyone can ask questions and receive personalized attention.

Local Products and Authentic Flavors

Paired with wines are local products that enhance the tasting experience. You might expect cheeses, Iberico ham, or traditional bread—further immersing you in La Rioja’s culinary culture. This pairing elevates each sip, turning the tasting into a full sensory journey.

Practical Details and Comfort

Meeting next to a large wooden gate makes logistics straightforward, and the tour itself lasts about 120 minutes—long enough to savor each moment without feeling rushed. The price of $41 per person represents good value, considering the comprehensive nature of the tasting, the historic setting, and the expert guidance.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience’s charm lies in its combination of history, good wines, and local culture. Unlike larger, more commercial tours that can feel impersonal, Hoplita and Friends offers a cozy, educational environment with passionate storytelling at its core. The inclusion of international wines means you’ll leave with a broader perspective on global winemaking, alongside appreciation for Rioja’s local treasures.

The historic cellar setting is a highlight—walking through stone corridors and tasting wine where monks or noble families once did makes every sip feel special.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history buffs who enjoy a story behind the wine, small-group enthusiasts who appreciate personalized attention, and wine lovers eager to compare Rioja wines with international styles. It’s also a great choice for culinary travelers wanting a taste of local products paired seamlessly with their wines.

If you’re after a relaxed yet insightful wine experience right in the city, this tour offers a refreshing alternative to visiting distant wineries. It’s perfect for those who value authenticity over production scale and want a memorable story to accompany their tasting.

The Sum Up

HOPLITA and FRIENDS tasting offers a well-rounded experience for those exploring La Rioja’s wine scene without venturing outside of Logroño. You’ll enjoy tasting six diverse wines—from local and international sources—in a historic setting, guided by passionate experts who love sharing their knowledge.

The combination of historic ambiance, expert storytelling, and a curated selection of wines makes it a standout for travelers seeking an authentic, educational, and tasty experience. The small group size ensures a personal touch, making it ideal for anyone craving a deeper connection with the local culture.

While it’s a shorter tour, the richness of the stories and wines makes it a worthwhile stop, especially if you’re limited on time but want maximum flavor and history. Budget-wise, it offers excellent value, given the quality of the experience and the exclusive setting.

This experience best suits history lovers, wine aficionados, and those wanting a relaxed, city-centric tasting that feels both special and authentic.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable and happy to explain everything, making it accessible for newcomers to wine tasting.

How many wines are tasted during the tour?
You will sample six wines in total—three from Hoplita and three international wines—paired with local products.

Does the tour include a visit to the vineyards?
No, this is a city-based winery experience in Logroño’s old town, not a vineyard visit.

What is the meeting point?
You meet next to a large wooden gate, which is easy to find in the city center.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and Spanish, and some content is shown in its original language.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly 120 minutes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the price per person?
The experience costs $41 per person, offering a good value for the depth and ambiance of the experience.

This tour is truly a gem for anyone wanting to experience Rioja wine in a memorable, historic setting without the hassle of traveling outside the city. The blend of rich history, passionate guides, and diverse wines makes it a noteworthy addition to any La Rioja visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: