September on the Rioja Alta Wine Route: the start of the grape harvest

September is one of the best months to visit the Rioja Alta Wine Route. The landscape is transformed: the vines reach their peak, the bunches swell and the colours herald the imminent arrival of the harvest. It is the perfect time to stroll among the vineyards and discover the authenticity of our villages.

It is also one of the busiest times of the year in our wineries and restaurants. The grape harvest not only sets the pace in the countryside, it also fills every corner with energy. Here, far from the tourist crowds, you will find the calm of endless landscapes and the warmth of people who know how to welcome visitors like no one else.

If you are looking for unique experiences, this month our partners have prepared special offers so you can enjoy the Rioja Alta in the most authentic way. Here they are:

Don’t Look Up: the strains between heaven and earth

On Wednesday, 10 September, at Bodegas Valenciso, Julián Palacios, vineyard caretaker, invites you to discover the balance between nature and viticulture in a unique experience. Don’t Look Up: vines between the sky and the ground.

Tasting of major regions around the world

The following day, Thursday 11 September, Juancho Asenjo will lead a sensory tour at Bodegas Valenciso to compare Rioja with other legendary wine regions. Tasting of great wine regions around the world.

Afternoons at Hacienda López de Haro

On Saturday, 6 September, come and enjoy live music, a wine bar and a great atmosphere in a unique setting at sunset. Afternoons at Hacienda López de Haro.

Open days in Ábalos

Also on Saturday, 6 September, enjoy local wine tastings, visits to wineries, tourist trains, live performances, and grape treading in a cave wine press. Open days in Ábalos.

Montecillo Summer Matinee

Brunch among vineyards and wine tasting at Bodegas Montecillo on Saturday, 6 September. An experience to savour summer in September. Montecillo Summer Matinée.

Open harvest at Bodegas Corral

From 28 September to 9 November, experience the magic of the grape harvest first-hand: tread grapes, learn about the process and toast to a new beginning in the vineyard. Open grape harvest at Bodegas Corral.

Experience the grape harvest from the inside at Bodegas Montecillo

Discover some of the most authentic aspects of this time of year. Depending on availability on the day, you can try freshly harvested grapes, taste fresh grape juice and learn about how the wine-making process begins. Harvest visits at Bodegas Montecillo.

Grape Harvest Day at Bodegas David Moreno

An activity designed for the whole family, where children and adults alike will enjoy a unique day full of tradition. Everyone will enjoy themselves in their own way and you will all take home unforgettable memories. If you feel like it, you can round off the experience with a meal at the Gonzalo de Berceo restaurant. Savour the most authentic flavours of our land while enjoying the essence of wine and culture. Harvest Day at Bodegas David Moreno

San Mateo in Logroño

From 20 to 26 September, the San Mateo and Rioja Wine Harvest festivals will take place. During these days, the city comes alive with activities ranging from the traditional grape treading and the offering of the first must to the Virgin of Valvanera, to floats, concerts, fireworks and wine tastings. It is a time to enjoy culture, music, gastronomy, and, of course, wine in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

September is Rioja Alta at its purest: grape harvest, landscapes, and unique experiences. Come and discover it with our partners!