With the arrival of autumn, La Rioja transforms into a breathtaking spectacle that enchants everyone who visits. The vineyards dress in their finest, displaying a unique palette of colors: greens fading into golden yellows, deep ochres, and vibrant reds. It is, without a doubt, the season when this land—proudly known as the Land with the Name of Wine—reveals its most artistic side.
October marks a turning point. After the bustle of the harvest, the fields leave behind their image of abundant clusters and lush greenery to offer entirely new panoramas. Reddish tones take over the landscape, and contemplating them becomes an unforgettable experience. Many travelers agree that this is perhaps the best season to admire the Rioja vineyards.
The perfect moment to visit
The spectacle of color change lasts only a few weeks, so choosing the right dates is essential. Typically, the peak occurs between mid-October and mid-November, although nature sets its own rhythm each year. With the arrival of winter, the vines bid farewell to their leaves and enter a well-deserved rest until spring.
The mystery of colors
The scientific explanation is as fascinating as it is simple. During spring and summer, chlorophyll—the pigment responsible for green—dominates the leaves. However, with the arrival of autumn, the plant stops producing it, and other pigments emerge, revealing the warm and vibrant tones that move us so deeply.
How to enjoy autumn in Rioja
Experiencing this season firsthand goes far beyond simply admiring the landscape: it is an awakening of all five senses. Walking through the vineyards makes one lose track of time—and sometimes even direction. Hiking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in this magical atmosphere. La Rioja boasts a wide network of marked trails that wind through vineyards, greenways, historic paths, and charming villages.
The region’s forests and mountains also offer another autumn tradition: mushroom foraging. Families and enthusiasts alike enjoy searching for these seasonal treasures which, paired with a fine Crianza wine, create unforgettable combinations.
A season with soul
Autumn in La Rioja is much more than a change of season. It is a sensory journey where postcard landscapes, authentic flavors, and the aromas of the land come together.
At ZINIO Bodegas, this natural spectacle is lived in a very special way: our vineyards, lovingly tended by the members who bring them to life, are dressed in autumn’s colors and become the perfect stage to enjoy our wines. Visiting us at this time of year means stepping into the very heart of Rioja, discovering the ever-changing beauty of the vine, and letting yourself be guided by the essence contained in every glass.
Autumn invites you to experience it firsthand… and at ZINIO, you will find the best way to do so.