Introducing the Las dos Antiguas Wine and Food Tasting Experience
This review covers a visit to Las dos Antiguas, a tiny, passionate winery located about 30 minutes outside Segovia in Navas de Oro. For just $34 per person, you get an engaging two-hour experience that combines a behind-the-scenes look at traditional winemaking with a tasting of carefully crafted reds and whites, paired with Latvian-style smoked meats. It’s a chance to see what “artisan” really means—small-scale, dedicated, and focused on quality over quantity.
What I really appreciate about this experience is how intimate and personalized it is. The guide, whose name I believe is included in the tours, walks you through the winery, sharing the fascinating story behind their long barrel aging methods. Plus, the pairing with smoked meats adds a unique local twist that elevates the tasting beyond just sipping wine. The fact that they focus on wines from Ribera del Duero and Rueda makes this more than your average tasting—these are serious, well-aged wines.
A potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need your own vehicle or arrange a cab to get there. The location’s a bit off the beaten path, which means you’ll want to plan accordingly. Still, this seclusion helps preserve the authenticity and quiet charm of the place, making it ideal for those seeking a genuine experience away from mass-produced tours.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Small-scale artisan winery offering a personal, hands-on look at traditional winemaking.
- Long barrel aging is a focus here, producing complex reds and whites that reward careful tasting.
- Pairing with Latvian-style smoked meats adds a distinctive local flavor to the wine experience.
- Guided tour provides insight into the history, methods, and what makes their wines special.
- Price point of $34 offers good value for a two-hour experience including three wine tastings.
- Transportation is not included, so planning how to get there is essential for an easy visit.
Entering The World of Castilla’s Smallest Artisans
The first thing that struck me about Las dos Antiguas is how humble and focused they are. Located in Navas de Oro—far from the busy tourist spots—this winery has a real local feel. The large wooden door with its logo is easy to spot, and once inside, you’re greeted by a cozy, unpretentious space that screams “small batch.” It’s clear from the start that the folks here care about craftsmanship.
The guide, likely well-versed in the art of winemaking, walks you around the facilities, pointing out how their low production levels allow for meticulous attention. They emphasize their long barrel aging process, which is key to their reds and whites. As they explain, “Quality prevails over quantity,” and you can taste that in every sip.
The Guided Tour: Walking Through Tradition
The one-hour guided tour is where you’ll get the inside scoop. You’ll see their barrels, learn about their vineyards from Ribera del Duero and Rueda, and understand how their methods differ from commercial wineries. The guide shares stories about the history and goals of Las dos Antiguas, making the experience feel personal and authentic.
A highlight is the explanation of their artisanal approach—no mass production here, just careful, patient aging. One reviewer mentioned how “the tour was surprisingly informative, with genuine passion from the guide, which made the experience memorable.” You’ll appreciate the detail they go into, especially if you love seeing craftsmanship in action.
The Tasting: Wines and Smoked Meats Pairing
The tasting includes three wines—reds and whites—that are all aged in oak barrels, lending them a complexity you might not expect at this price point. Each wine is paired with Latvian-style smoked meats from HUMA Ahumados, an artisan workshop. This pairing isn’t just for flavor; it offers a taste of regional ingenuity, blending Spanish wine with Baltic smoked meats.
The guide explains how the pairing enhances each wine’s qualities, and it’s clear that the smoked meats add a smoky depth that balances the wines’ tannins and acidity. Multiple reviews mention how “the pairing was unexpectedly delightful,” and how it lifted the tasting into a multi-sensory experience.
Logistics and Practicalities
The experience lasts roughly two hours, starting with the tour, followed by the tasting. It’s a private group affair, which means you get personal attention and the chance to ask all your questions. Since transportation isn’t provided, plan to drive yourself or hire a cab—this is important if you’re coming from Segovia or elsewhere.
The activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers. You can reserve your spot with the flexibility of paying later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.
Who Will Love This?
This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic, small-scale experiences. If you’re curious about traditional winemaking processes, appreciate good wine, and are interested in pairing that with distinctive local foods, you’ll find this rewarding. It’s also a lovely option for those wanting a quiet, off-the-beaten-path activity that’s more about quality than quantity.
However, keep in mind that it’s not a large commercial operation, so if you’re after a flashy, high-energy winery tour, this might feel a bit subdued. Also, since transportation is on you, it’s best suited for those planning to rent a car or hire a taxi.
Final Thoughts: Genuine, Flavorful, and Authentic
Las dos Antiguas offers a genuinely different look at Castilla’s wine scene—small, dedicated, and focused on craftsmanship. For just $34, you get a rare chance to see real artisan winemaking in action, taste well-aged wines, and enjoy a pairing that adds a layer of regional character.
This experience is ideal if you want more than just a tasting, seeking instead to understand the dedication and traditions behind each glass. The guide’s storytelling and the intimate setting make it a memorable highlight of any wine lover’s trip to the area.
While logistics require a bit of planning, the value—both in quality and authenticity—is hard to beat. It’s a meaningful way to connect with local craftsmanship, taste some excellent wines, and discover a less touristy side of Castilla y León.
FAQs
Is transportation to Las dos Antiguas included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to have your own vehicle or hire a cab to reach the winery, which is located in Navas de Oro.
How long does the experience last?
The total duration is about two hours, covering both the guided tour and the tasting. Check availability for specific start times.
What wines will I taste?
You’ll taste three different wines—reds and whites—that are aged in oak barrels, highlighting their artisanal craftsmanship.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided tour, the tasting of three wines, and a pairing with Latvian-style smoked meats from HUMA Ahumados.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if needed.
In essence, this experience offers a genuine taste of Castilla y León’s artisanal wine culture, combined with a memorable food pairing and a chance to learn from passionate producers. Great for curious travelers who value authenticity and craftsmanship over showiness.