Episode 02 - Alta

Join host Marti Buckley to explore Rioja's wine culture, indulge in pintxos and Michelin-starred dining, soar in a hot air balloon, and uncover the history of the Monasteries of Suso and Yuso.

Episode 2: Discover the alluring Alta region of Rioja with host Marti Buckley. Enjoy vibrant Calle Laurel pintxos paired with young, fruity reds and explore Haro’s celebrated wine bars and vineyards. Relish a gourmet experience at Michelin-starred Nublo with Rioja Reserva and barrel-fermented whites.

Marti tastes traditional bacalao Riojana soup with tempranillo, soaks in the region’s festive charm, explores the Monasteries of Suso and Yuso with José Luis Lapuente, and ends with a magical sunrise wine tasting in a hot air balloon. Marti also visits Vivanco, the best wine museum in the world!

More from Episode 2

Rioja Paired Recipes: Champis

GRILLED MUSHROOMS: Garlic grilled mushrooms pincho on bread. A visit to Logroño in Rioja Alta isn’t complete without stopping for pintxos on Calle Laurel. One of the most iconic bites you’ll find is the champi, short for champiñón (mushroom). This simple but flavorful pintxo features grilled button mushrooms topped with shrimp and served on crusty bread. A garlicky vinaigrette ties it all together, making it the perfect pairing with a glass of young Tempranillo wine. Don't miss Bar Soriano or Bar Ángel, two of the top spots to try this local specialty.

READ MORE

Rioja Paired Recipes: Patatas a la riojana

RIOJAN POTATOES: A peasant dish, patatas a la riojana was created to fill the bellies of the very laborers responsible for the production of its components. It is not often found outside of Rioja, which is surprising, as it is both easy to make and composed of staple pantry ingredients: potatoes, onions, wine, and chorizo.

READ MORE

EPISODES

Episode 01: Marti

October, '24

Join Chef Marti Buckley on her way to Rioja as she explores San Sebastian and Bilbao, highlighting vibrant markets, Basque cuisine, and exceptional Rioja wines at Rekondo wine cellars.

Episode 02: Alta

October, '24

Join host Marti Buckley to explore Rioja's wine culture, indulge in pintxos and Michelin-starred dining, soar in a hot air balloon, and uncover the history of the Monasteries of Suso and Yuso.

Episode 03: Oriental (Eastern Rioja)

October, '24

Join host Marti Buckley as she explores the Rioja Oriental (Eastern Rioja) region, showcasing its unique blend of culture, wine, and traditional cuisine. Discover the historic Monasterio de Santa María de Yerga, see how the climate shapes local wines, and enjoy a meal at Restaurant Sopitas.

Episode 04: Alavesa

October, '24

In this fourth and final episode, host Marti Buckley visits the Rioja Alavesa region of Spain, where she tours the medieval town of Laguardia and its ancient wine cellars before venturing to modern architecture wineries like Bodegas Ysios and Marqués de Riscal.

You must be 21 years of age or older to view this website.