The World’s Best Vineyards, known for curating exceptional wine tourism destinations, publishes an annual list of the top vineyards worldwide. Their selections highlight not only wine quality but also the visitor experience, including tastings, accommodations, and unique attractions at the vineyard and in its surrounding area.

For 2024, the title of the best vineyard in Europe, and the world, has been awarded to Bodegas de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal, situated in the small but charming town of Elciego, Spain, at the southern edge of the Rioja Alavesa wine region in northern Spain.

With a legacy spanning over 160 years, the vineyard and winery trace their origins back to 1858. Their first Rioja wine was produced just four years later, in 1862. For over a century, Marqués de Riscal crafted only red wines until they daringly broke with tradition and local reverence in 1972 by introducing their first white wine from Rueda. This leap into white winemaking is honored on their website with a whimsical and enigmatic photograph of the swimming pigs of the Bahamas. The choice of imagery invites unlimited speculation: pigs fly, pigs swim, white wine in Rioja, let your imagination freely wander.

In 2006, Marqués de Riscal expanded its offerings with the inauguration of the City of Wine, a striking complex featuring a hotel and entertainment facilities crowned by a “billowing titanium and stainless-steel roof;” designed by architect Frank Gehry. Visitors to the City of Wine can immerse themselves in the vineyard’s rich history and culture while enjoying luxurious relaxation at the Spa Vinothérapie Caudalie, fine dining at multiple restaurants, shopping at the wine boutique, or even celebrating their love with a wedding, perfect for couples old and young.

Oh, and enjoy the wines: Tempranillo, Tempranillo Blends, Tempranillo/Graciano, Garnacha/Viura, Verdejo, and Sauvignon Blanc. The Marques de Riscal Reserva Rioja’s (Tempranillo) various vintages are consistently rated in the 88-91 range and sell for about $25. Cheers.

Source: World’s Best Vineyards. Marques de Riscal Vineyard. Graphic: Swimming Pigs of the Bahamas.