Spring in the Vineyard: The Rebirth of Wine in Rioja Alta
Spring is one of the most eagerly awaited seasons in the world of wine. After the silence of winter, the vineyards awaken and come to life. In Rioja Alta, this transformation is experienced intensely. The land begins to change, the first green shoots appear among the vine branches, and the landscape is filled with new hues that signal the beginning of the vine’s growing cycle.
This initial stage, known as budburst, is key to the quality of the future harvest. It is the moment when the plant activates its stored energy to develop leaves, buds, and flowers. Work in the vineyard multiplies: temperatures are monitored, soils are prepared, and green pruning is carried out to guide growth. Everything is done with precision, respecting the natural balance of the vineyard.
Visiting a wine region in spring allows guests to connect with the true origin of wine. It is the season when everything begins — the wine is not yet in barrel or bottle, but in its first tender leaves. At this stage, the vineyard reveals its most delicate and authentic face, offering visitors a unique visual and sensory experience.
Rioja Alta: Tradition, Landscape and Wine with Identity
Rioja Alta is one of the three sub-regions of the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin (D.O.Ca.). Located in the westernmost part of the region, it stands out for its elevation, Atlantic-influenced climate, and clay-limestone soils, which are ideal for cultivating high-quality grapes. This combination of factors gives rise to balanced, elegant wines with great ageing potential.
Beyond its winemaking excellence, Rioja Alta is a land rich in history and heritage. Towns such as Haro, Briones, San Vicente de la Sonsierra, and Nájera preserve an architectural and cultural legacy deeply linked to viticulture. Churches, castles, ancient wine presses and old pathways reveal how this land has lived from and for wine for centuries.
Spring is an excellent time to explore Rioja Alta. Mild temperatures, natural light, and lush vegetation make the region an attractive destination not only for wine lovers, but also for those seeking nature, culture and peaceful surroundings.
Uruñuela and Zinio Bodegas: Wine Tourism with Soul in the Heart of Rioja Alta
In the center of Rioja Alta, surrounded by vineyards and with views of the Sierra de la Demanda, lies the village of Uruñuela. Less well-known than other nearby towns, Uruñuela represents the most authentic spirit of winegrowing La Rioja. Here, the vine is part of everyday life, and the tradition of viticulture has been passed down from generation to generation.
In this setting, Zinio Bodegas was born — a project that combines the strength of a historic cooperative with a modern and sustainable vision of winemaking. Zinio not only produces high-quality wines, but also opens its doors to visitors who want to understand the process from the source, in direct contact with the vineyard and those who care for it.
In spring, Zinio Bodegas offers a wine tourism experience designed to show the vineyard at its purest. Guided tastings help guests connect each glass of wine to the land and the story that made it possible.
Visiting Uruñuela and Zinio in spring means discovering a different side of Rioja. It means feeling the connection between the land and the wine, between agricultural work and the pleasure of the glass. It is a chance to experience the vineyard from within and understand how a wine with true identity is born — crafted with respect, passion, and know-how.
Experience Spring in Rioja Alta with Zinio Bodegas
Spring is more than just a season. In Rioja Alta, and especially in Uruñuela, it marks the beginning of a story that will culminate in the harvest. At Zinio Bodegas, we invite you to be part of that beginning — to walk among the living vines, to listen to the land come alive, and to enjoy wine at its most genuine.
We look forward to welcoming you this spring for an authentic wine tourism experience, where every visit matters, every glass has meaning, and every step among the vines leaves a lasting impression.
To learn more about the world of wine, DOCa Rioja, and our winery, feel free to visit our blog every Thursday and follow us on social media: @ziniobodegas.