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Rioja Named Europe’s Top Wine Destination for 2025

If you needed another reason to put Rioja at the top of your travel wish list, here it is: Time Out has just named Rioja the #1 wine destination in Europe for 2025.

In its newly released ranking of the continent’s best places for wine lovers, Rioja beat out iconic regions like Tuscany and Bordeaux—cementing its place as a must-visit for anyone who appreciates incredible wine, food, and culture.

Why Did Rioja Top the List?

So, what makes Rioja stand out? According to Time Out, it’s not just the wine—though that certainly helps! The editors praised the region for its beautiful rolling vineyards, historic villages, and a wine scene that blends tradition with innovation. Rioja’s wineries are known for welcoming visitors in a way that feels authentic, with immersive tastings, tours through centuries-old cellars, and local food pairings that show off the best of northern Spain.

Plus, you won’t find just one style of wine here. From classic, long-aged Tempranillos to crisp, modern whites and lively rosados, Rioja offers something for every palate.

A Perfect Destination for Wine Lovers

One of the biggest reasons Rioja stands out is its mix of old and new. You can visit family-run estates that have been making wine for generations or discover younger winemakers who are bringing fresh ideas and techniques to the region’s DOCa standards.

The cities and towns are just as inviting. Visitors can stroll medieval streets, sip wine in bustling tapas bars, or unwind at a stylish boutique hotel surrounded by vineyards. And because Rioja is a relatively compact region, you can cover a lot in just a few days.

Bringing Rioja to Your Table

While visiting Rioja should be on every wine lover’s bucket list, you don’t have to wait for your next European adventure to enjoy what makes this region so special. Using our Wine Locator tool linked below, you can find just about any bottle of Rioja available near you.

Whether you’re looking for a classic Gran Reserva to cellar for a special occasion or an easy-drinking rosado for your next backyard dinner, our selection highlights the diversity and quality that just earned Rioja this top honor.

Start Planning Your Rioja Experience

This recognition by Time Out is a reminder that Rioja isn’t just a wine—it’s an experience. So, whether you’re planning your first visit, dreaming of a future trip to a world-class wine destination, or simply exploring with every sip, there’s never been a better time to discover (or rediscover) what makes Rioja so special.

Plan your trip with Rioja’s Experiences Finder and bring a taste of Europe’s top wine destination home today.