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Rioja Tops the World’s Best Vineyards List
Rioja is again in the global spotlight as Bodegas De Los Herederos Del Marqués De Riscal clinches the title of World’s Best Vineyard for 2024. Recognized for its exceptional wines and unforgettable visitor experience, this esteemed vineyard tops the World’s Best Vineyards annual list, underscoring Rioja’s position as a top destination for wine tourism.
Rioja’s Exceptional Performance: World’s Best Vineyards 2024
In 2024, the Rioja region celebrates not one but five vineyards that have claimed spots on this prestigious list. Alongside Marqués De Riscal, Bodegas Ysios (ranked 4th), Bodegas Muga (ranked 23rd), Marqués de Murrieta Estates & Wines (ranked 30th), and Bodegas Vivanco (ranked 31st) were all recognized for their unique contributions to the wine industry.
Bodegas De Los Herederos Del Marqués De Riscal is celebrated for its wines and architectural innovation, thanks to the luxurious hotel designed by the legendary Frank Gehry. This iconic structure draws wine lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and luxury travelers to Rioja. Guests at Marqués De Riscal can enjoy an immersive experience, complete with wine-paired dinners at its renowned restaurant that highlights local, refined cuisine.
Bodegas Ysios: Spain’s “Highest Climber” and an Immersive Experience
Claiming the title of Highest Climber, Bodegas Ysios moved an impressive 67 places up to 4th. Known for Santiago Calatrava’s striking architecture, Ysios offers an expanded visitor experience, including an exclusive Winecar Tour that takes guests through the Rioja Alavesa vineyards in electric vehicles. Each tour includes tasting Ysios wines with curated appetizers, delivering a dynamic and eco-friendly way to explore the region’s scenic vineyards.
Heritage and Adventure at Bodegas Muga
At 23rd on the list, Bodegas Muga stands out for blending tradition with adventure. Guests can tour Muga’s historic cooperage, where oak barrels are still crafted by hand, preserving traditional winemaking techniques. Additionally, visitors can take a Segway tour through the vineyard or soar above the vines in a hot air balloon at sunrise—a perfect way to appreciate the picturesque Rioja landscape.
Marqués de Murrieta: History Meets Innovation
Ranked 30th, Marqués de Murrieta Estates & Wines offers an extraordinary mix of history and modernity. The estate is home to Castillo de Ygay, a historic 1852 castle, and has recently expanded with new parks and gardens that enhance the vineyard’s natural beauty. This estate attracts wine tourists interested in historical architecture, innovative winemaking, and stunning landscapes.
Bodegas Vivanco: A Celebration of Wine Culture
At 31st, Bodegas Vivanco appeals to both wine and culture enthusiasts. Home to the world-renowned Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, this vineyard enriches visitors’ understanding of winemaking through art, history, and interactive exhibits. Annual events such as “Stars Among Vineyards,” a stargazing experience, and the “Grape Harvest Festival” provide unique opportunities to engage with the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
Rioja’s Recognition on the Global Stage
With an impressive five vineyards featured in the top 50, Rioja emerged as the most awarded region in this year’s list. The World’s Best Vineyards ranking, an annual assessment by wine and travel experts around the globe, highlights the exceptional quality, visitor experience, and sustainability that Rioja’s wineries continue to offer.
This year, with Marqués De Riscal at the forefront, Rioja’s reputation as a premier wine destination is stronger than ever. The region invites wine lovers from across the world to experience its remarkable blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty, promising unforgettable experiences and world-class wines for every visitor.
The awards ceremony took place on Monday, 4th November 2024
The Top 50 list is compiled from all the nominations by the global academy of voters. The world is split into geographical regions, each headed up by an acknowledged expert as the Academy Chair. Each Academy Chair is responsible for recruiting 36 wine and travel experts. Each member of the Voting Academy must vote for 7 vineyards. There is no pre-determined checklist of criteria or predefined list to choose from – each vote is a nomination for a vineyard experience open to the public that they deem to truly be the best in the world.
Even More to Celebrate
The success extends beyond the top 50. La Rioja Alta secured a commendable 62nd place, lauded for its exclusive tastings, in-depth tours of its century-old cellars, and insights into traditional winemaking techniques, all within the charming setting of Haro’s historic wine district.
Celebrate Rioja’s triumph and explore the region’s vast potential for yourself! Join the Rioja community and connect with our Trade Team for exclusive opportunities.