THE BEST WINE HOTELS IN THE WORLD

BY LAURA SCHREFFLER

In the Basque Country’s Rioja wine region of Spain, with the Sierra de Cantabria’s snow-capped peaks protecting the region’s vineyards from the cold north winds, is one of the most visually remarkable hotels in the world. I actually defy you to see it and think otherwise. Hotel Marqués de Riscal was built by none other than world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, who conceived his avantgarde idea after opening a 1929 vintage (his year of birth) at the Cathedral — the historic cellar with a unique collection of over 130 vintages treasured by the Marqués de Riscal winery since 1862. Gehry imagined the hotel as the epicenter of a “City of Wine,” with the hotel as a “chateau of the 21st century.” And he wasn’t far off. From a distance, the building resembles a silvery bauble wrapped in shimmering titanium strips in metallic tones of deep pink, gold, and silver — the colors found on Marqués de Riscal bottle caps — and in the ripe, pinkish red of the wine itself (which guests are treated to a bottle of upon arrival). Elsewhere, visually, the hotel continues to be a marvel. Cushioned window seats and headboards are upholstered in soft maroon leather according to Gehry’s specifications, while bathrooms are lined with mottled dark grey-green marble. The interiors are highlighted best in the Gehry suite, which features a unique, intricate shape and a magnificent terrace overlooking the village of Elciego. Amenities in all rooms are courtesy of Caudalie, whose products are derived from grapes and vines; the brand oversees the spa as well. As can be expected from the City of Wine, absolutely everything here is exquisite, from the spa treatments to spectacular epicurean experiences. In fact, its Restaurante Marqués de Riscal was awarded with a Michelin star. Be sure to make time for a full guided tour of Herederos del Marqués de Riscal winery, which ends with — you guessed it — a wine tasting, for total immersion into the winemaking process. Calle Torrea, 1, Elciego, Spain 01340