“A unique way to think Rioja & San Sebastian Wine Tours”
Academic Foundations & Professional Expertise in San Sebastian wine tours
Juan Cabanzón, founder of Rooters, embodies a rare convergence of academic distinction, hands-on experience, and heartfelt dedication to the world of wine and gastronomy. His journey begins at the esteemed Basque Culinary Center, one of the most innovative institutions in contemporary culinary education, where he laid the foundations of his gastronomic philosophy. Further deepening his expertise, Juan pursued a Master’s Degree in Wine Tourism through a tri-national program that took him to Tarragona, Bordeaux, and Porto—three of Europe’s most storied and emblematic wine regions. This international education not only sharpened his technical acumen but also immersed him in the cultural and historical intricacies that shape each terroir.
Rooters is the natural outcome of this blend of knowledge, passion, and lived experience. With a refined palate, a scholar’s curiosity, and a storyteller’s soul, Juan curates journeys that go far beyond conventional wine tourism. His tours are intimate explorations of place and people—encounters that celebrate the authenticity of small producers, the richness of local traditions, and the quiet beauty of the landscapes that give life to the wines. Through Rooters, Juan invites guests into a world where every glass of wine tells a story, and every visit becomes a meaningful memory.
A Curated Approach to Wine Encounters
Rooters is not a typical tour operator. Under Juan’s guidance, each experience is crafted with intention—offering guests the rare opportunity to connect directly with the people behind the wines. Rooters partners exclusively with boutique, family-run wineries and independent winegrowers that embody authenticity and excellence. Among them: Valenciso in Ollauri, known for its elegance and balance; Ostatu, a benchmark for single-vineyard Rioja Alavesa wines; and Itsasmendi, pioneers of terroir-driven Txakoli in Bizkaia. These are more than visits—they are genuine encounters with stories, landscapes, and wines of character. Bespoke wine tours in Spain, the only way.
Some more of the wineries I work with:
Bodegas Artadi
Bodegas Murua
Bodegas Amaren
Bodegas Gómez Cruzado
Bodegas Remírez de Ganuza
Bodegas K5
Viñedos Hontza
Ramón Sáenz Viticultor
Doniene Gorrondona
…
Rooters is proudly built on word-of-mouth and the trust of those who’ve joined us. The reviews speak for themselves: thoughtful, personal, and full of detail. One guest recently wrote, “Juan doesn’t just know wine—he lives it. Every stop felt like being welcomed by a friend, not a guide.”
You can read more testimonials from our travelers here: