It’s been 101 years since the Rioja Destination of Origin was created – and whilst, admittedly, I’m not wildly clued up on this particular wine region (or any of them, for that matter), I’m more than happy to get stuck in if it means I get to spend the day guzzling delicious wine.
Luckily for me and my fellow wine-novices, there is someone in London who knows exactly what’s what in the world of Rioja. Richard Bigg owns the only wine bar in the world that’s dedicated exclusively to the wines from – you guessed it, folks – the Rioja region in northern Spain. And that wine bar is right here in the capital city.
Bar Rioja is the spot in question, and is about to host a rather wine-derful festival. So, whether you’re a Rioja-rookie or a seasoned-sommelier, you’re going to want to listen up – because this event is sure to rioja your world.
Bar Rioja Festival 2026
Following the inaugural event last year, Bar Rioja Festival is back for round two. Nestled away in a cosy King’s Cross courtyard, the festival will transform the sun-soaked spot; transporting the tastebuds of its visitors straight to streets Spain. The festival is inspired by the bi-annual ‘Barrio de la Estacion Cata de Vinos’ tasting event and will celebrate and shine a light on the Rioja region’s unparalleled diversity and deliciousness.
This year’s Bar Rioja Festival will take place on July 4 from 1.30pm-6.30pm. Visitors will have have the chance to sip, swirl, and savour 16 different wines from across the region and dig in to a plate of fresh paella as they do so. From crisp whites to bold reds, the event will showcase a blend of both traditional and more modern styles of Rioja, so there’s sure to be something for even the fussiest of wine-drinkers.
Alongside the abundance of vino, the festival will also feature Spanish street food, live DJs, and the chance to chat with winemakers and learn more about the wonderful wines on offer. We will most definitely drink to that.
Bar Rioja Festival will be taking place on Saturday, July 4 from 1.30pm-6.30pm. Find out more and snap up a ticket here.
