Bodegas Ysios

Bodegas Ysios is one of the most recognisable wineries in the world, standing just outside Laguardia, in the heart of Rioja Alavesa.

What makes the Ysios building such a landmark?

The winery was designed by Santiago Calatrava and opened in 2001, quickly becoming a reference point for both architecture lovers and wine tourists. Its signature wave-shaped roof and two long, curved concrete walls - each stretching close to 200 metres and set roughly 26 metres apart - trace a rhythm that mirrors the silhouette of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains rising directly behind the building. That visual dialogue between structure and landscape is why Ysios is often cited as one of the projects that kicked off a wave of "author wineries" in Rioja, buildings designed by star architects to double as both production facilities and cultural attractions.

The southern facade is covered with horizontal cedar wood slats. They reflect in a shallow pool of water placed in front of the building, and from a distance the pattern reads almost like a row of ageing barrels - a quiet nod to what actually happens inside.

Where does the name Ysios come from?

The name references Isis and Osiris, two Egyptian deities long associated with wine and viticulture in ancient mythology. It was a deliberate choice by the winery's founders, meant to place the estate within a much older, symbolic tradition of winemaking rather than tying it solely to the local history of Rioja.

What can visitors expect from a tour and tasting?

Bodegas Ysios runs guided visits paired with wine tastings, but access is by reservation only - there is no option to simply walk in and join a tour. A typical visit moves through the production area and the barrel room before finishing in a tasting space with views over the Sierra de Cantabria, where guests learn about the winemaking process while sampling the wines, often alongside light Iberian-style snacks. Longer tasting formats include older vintages and limited-edition bottlings, making the experience suitable for casual visitors and serious wine enthusiasts alike.

Where are the Ysios vineyards located?

The estate covers roughly 34 hectares of vines spread between Laguardia and the neighbouring village of Elvillar, at the foot of the Sierra de Cantabria range. The wines fall under the DOCa Rioja appellation, specifically the Rioja Alavesa subzone, known for its clay-limestone soils and a cooler microclimate compared with other parts of the Rioja region.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book in advance to visit Bodegas Ysios? Yes. The winery does not accept walk-in visitors - all tours and tastings run on a reservation basis, so booking ahead is essential.

Who designed the Bodegas Ysios building? The building was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, known for bold, organic forms that respond to their surrounding landscape.

Why is the winery called Ysios? The name refers to the Egyptian deities Isis and Osiris, both traditionally linked to the symbolism of wine.

Is Bodegas Ysios close to Laguardia town centre? Yes, the winery sits right at the edge of Laguardia, beneath the Sierra de Cantabria mountains, making it easy to combine a visit with exploring the town itself.