The Wine Museum in Rioja was a blast! (No I'm not drunk in this picture)

A Spanish adventure would not be complete for this Wine lover without a visit to the Rioja Region. After a couple of days in the heart of the city, we jumped on a train from Barcelona to Logroño where we rented a car to reach the old town of LaGuardia.  The small town dates back to the 15th Century complete with a moored gate. Arriving just ahead of a small running of the bulls, the energy in the streets was high. Everyone was gathering in the town center to celebrate. 

A former church, the Hospederia de los Parajes has unique suite style rustic rooms.  I preferred the windows facing the town square to see the festivities and didn’t mind the late night music. I was surprised that even though few people spoke English, everyone knew the words to ABBA and Journey songs.

The next morning, to learn more of the rich history of the region, the tour started at Vivanco Winery and Wine Museum. Outside the giant grape sculpture dared me to take a bite before the next crawl to the Marqués de Riscal Winery and Restaurant.  The architectural rock star Frank Gehry designed the Hotel with swirling mirror steel rooftop by Javier Salas. It is a must see inside and out while the Michelin star rated restaurant is outstanding. 

In the underground cellars, the wine on the assembly line clanked by as I anticipated the next round of tasting. It’s great to have a designated driver at a wine tasting because I refuse to spit out the good Riojas.