Enjoy wine tourism in September: activities on the Rioja Alta Wine Route

If you are looking for a unique experience in September, the Rioja Alta Wine Route offers you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of wine tourism. With the grape harvest beginning and the landscapes constantly changing their colour, this month is ideal for exploring wine traditions and enjoying a destination that combines nature, culture and gastronomy in an unbeatable way.

Moreover, if we look at the thermometers, September is also a perfect month to enjoy wine tourism on the Rioja Alta Wine Route, with very pleasant average temperatures of around 18-20°C, ideal for exploring vineyards and taking part in the numerous activities the region has to offer.

September is synonymous with the start of the grape harvest in the Rioja Alta, and many wineries open their doors for you to live this unique experience first hand. Imagine starting the day picking grapes, as has been done for centuries, and then taking part in the winemaking process. From the harvest to the traditional crushing of the grapes, each step is an immersion in wine culture. These activities will allow you to learn about the grape harvest process and connect with the traditions of the region.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, many wineries also organise special tastings, which are often accompanied by pairings with local seasonal products such as cheeses or cured meats, adding a gourmet touch to the experience.

September is also an ideal month to enjoy the nature that surrounds the Rioja Alta Wine Route. With the change of season, the vineyards are tinged with warm colours, offering spectacular landscapes that invite you to explore. The hiking and cycling routes allow you to explore these landscapes at your own pace, discovering small wineries and charming villages.

If you prefer a more intimate experience, some wineries offer yoga sessions among the vineyards, an activity that combines physical well-being with the serenity of the natural surroundings. You can also opt for horseback rides, which will take you to discover hidden corners of the region, always with the majesty of the vineyards as a backdrop.

You can’t talk about the Rioja Alta Wine Route without mentioning its rich gastronomy. In September, the local restaurants take great care to offer menus based on seasonal produce. From the classic potatoes with chorizo sausage or chops with vine shoots to more innovative dishes that fuse the best of traditional cuisine with contemporary touches, the gastronomic offer is as diverse as it is delicious.

In addition, some wineries organise paired dinners, where each dish is carefully selected to complement the local wines. These events are an excellent opportunity to discover new flavours and enjoy a complete culinary experience.

Events and activities in September

During September, the Rioja Alta Wine Route is full of wine tourism activities that will make your visit an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the ‘tardeos’ at Bodegas López de Haro, where you can enjoy live music, pinchos and a great atmosphere in a space with exceptional views. For music lovers, Finca Valpiedra offers a piano concert in its barrel room accompanied by the winery’s wines. Also the concert Catas al canto, with the soprano Almudena Merino Miño, which will be held at the Globos Arco Iris facilities in Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón.

The traditional Open Days in Ábalos will take you to taste the local wines while you visit the wineries, and to enjoy the tastings, the tourist train, the live performances or the treading of the grapes in a cave wine press.

And if you’re looking for a bit of ‘action’ for your stay, September also sees the local festivities in the capital, Logroño, a town on the Rioja Alta Wine Route. The San Mateo and Rioja Grape Harvest festivities take place from 20 to 26 September and during this week the city comes alive with activities ranging from the traditional treading of grapes and the offering of the first grape juice to the Virgen de Valvanera, to parades, concerts, fireworks and wine tastings. It is a time to enjoy culture, music, gastronomy and, of course, wine in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

After a day full of activities, there is nothing better than resting in one of the accommodations that the Rioja Alta Wine Route has to offer. From rural houses to boutique hotels, the offer is varied and adapts to all tastes. The local hospitality and peaceful surroundings guarantee a relaxing stay, whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends or as a family.

In addition to the many wine tourism activities that September brings, it is important to highlight that the Rioja Alta Wine Route was the most visited wine tourism destination in 2023, consolidating its position as a benchmark in wine tourism. An achievement that reflects the unique combination of landscapes, culture, gastronomy and wine experiences that has not gone unnoticed by its thousands of visitors every year.

In short, September is the perfect month to explore the Rioja Alta Wine Route and enjoy everything this region has to offer. From the grape harvest to gastronomy, outdoor activities and cultural events, every experience is an opportunity to discover the charm of a land that lives and breathes wine. Don’t miss it!