Last Updated on April 29, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: May 7, 2018
The extent of most people’s Spanish wine knowledge consists of two famous reds: Ribera and Rioja. While there are many excellent varieties of each, it’s always good to try something different! There are dozens of spectacular lesser-known wines produced just a short distance from San Sebastián. Here are our favorite 5 incredible regional wines to order in San Sebastián so you can truly drink like a local!
Wanting to take a day trip to a nearby winery? Here’s our ultimate guide to the best wineries near San Sebastián!
Txakoli
Txakoli is the holy grail of wines to order in San Sebastian! This semi-sparkling, dry white wine is native to the Basque Country. In fact, it’s quite difficult to find anywhere else in Spain—or in the world! Luckily, while you’re here in San Sebastian, it’s quite easy to find. Some of our 10 favorite bars in San Sebastián serve txakoli, making it the perfect way to wash down your tasty pintxos!
Some of the best txakoli hails from the nearby villages of Getaria and Zarautz. Here you can take one of the top 5 vineyard tours near San Sebastián and learn all about how this unique wine gets its start. The coastal climate in these seaside towns is ideal for producing a perfect txakoli: fruity, dry, crisp and refreshing!
Rioja Alavesa
We know—we just said that there’s so much more to Spanish wine than Rioja. However, the variety of Rioja known as alavesa is one of the must-try wines to order in San Sebastian. Produced in the southern reaches of the Basque Country, these wines fall under the prestigious D.O. Calificada Rioja label. The main difference, though, lies in geography and the production process.
Because alavesa Riojas have their roots in grapes planted along the foot of the Sierra Toloño mountains, their taste is noticeably different from that of regular Riojas. After they grow, the grapes start the fermentation process while still whole (rather than being crushed and destemmed first, as is common in other Rioja regions). As a result, alavesas boast a fuller body, higher acidity and a soft, fruity flavor.
Often eclipsed by its more popular neighbor, Rioja, the Navarra wine region is quickly making a name for itself in recent years. Winemaking here is an ancient tradition, one that its family-run bodegas continue proudly. Due to its proximity to the Basque Country, these are some of the most unique wines to order in San Sebastián.
In the past, Navarra was best known for its rosé wines. While these are an excellent choice, the region is gaining more recognition for its spectacular reds and whites as well. No matter which you choose, it will make the perfect accompaniment to your pintxos!
Cava
Step aside, champagne! Cava, Spain’s contribution to the world of sparkling wine, is less expensive and just as delicious as its more popular French counterpart. It’s also one of the best wines to order in San Sebastian, especially if you’re toasting to a special occasion!
While 95 percent of Spain’s cava comes from Catalonia, there are still a number of other cava regions in the rest of the country. The Basque Country is one of Spain’s foremost producers of cava outside of Catalonia. Order a glass of locally produced bubbly and drink up!
Rueda Verdejo
Last but certainly not least on our list of wines to order in San Sebastián, Rueda is a standout among Spanish whites. High quality verdejo grapes mature to perfection in the flat high plains of northern Castilla y León and later become some seriously fabulous wine.
Fresh, fruity, crisp and refreshing, Rueda Verdejo wines are perfect with many different foods (such as shellfish, fresh cheese, salads and more), or on their own as a standalone aperitif. It may not be the most popular Spanish wine, but this hidden gem will quickly become one of your new favorites from the first sip.
Want to taste some of these wines for yourself? Don’t miss our favorite wine tastings in San Sebastián!
Experience San Sebastián’s Food & Wine on Tour
Craving more than just wine? We can’t blame you—you’re in San Sebastián, home to some of the best food in the world! Join us on our Ultimate Pintxos & Wine Tour to experience the best of both worlds: a curated selection of the best authentic pintxos San Sebastián has to offer, perfectly paired with the drinks locals love, including an outstanding selection of regional wines. Along the way, you’ll pick up invaluable insider info and tips for eating like a local.
Featured Review: Ultimate Pintxos & Wine Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Hector is an outstanding guide. He knows all his restaurants and treats them well. All the pintxos were delicious. Tried several wines, cider and sherry. He incorporates a good overview of the history of San Sebastián and the basque people.. We found that informative and enjoyable.”
– Jim on Tripadvisor
Wines to Order in San Sebastián FAQs
What wines are typical in San Sebastián and the Basque Country?
The most typical wines in San Sebastián include txakoli, Rioja Alavesa, and wines from nearby Navarra. These regional wines reflect the Basque Country’s various terroirs, ranging from crisp whites to structured reds.
What is txakoli wine and why is it popular in San Sebastián?
Txakoli is a lightly sparkling, dry white wine from the Basque Country known for its high acidity, low alcohol, and fresh citrus flavors. It’s popular in San Sebastián because it pairs perfectly with seafood and pintxos, and is traditionally poured from a height to enhance its slight fizz.
What is Rioja Alavesa and how is it different from Rioja?
Rioja Alavesa is a sub-region of Rioja located in the Basque Country. Its wines are often more acidic and fruit-forward than other Rioja styles, with a strong sense of place due to local grape growing and production methods.
Are there good wines near San Sebastián besides txakoli?
Yes! Near San Sebastián, you can also try wines from Navarra, Rioja Alavesa, Rueda (Verdejo), and even cava. These regions are all close to the city and offer a wide range of wine types, such as crisp whites, bold reds, and sparkling wines.
What wine should you order with pintxos in San Sebastián?
The best wine to order with pintxos is often txakoli because of its crisp acidity and refreshing character. It pairs especially well with seafood, anchovies, olives, and other small bites commonly found in Basque bars.
