Located in the village of Elvillar in Rioja Alavesa, Bodegas Bhilar is one of Spain’s leading biodynamic estates. Founded by David Sampedro and Melanie Hickman, the winery is dedicated to expressing the identity of Rioja through organic farming, native grape varieties and minimal intervention winemaking.
The Estate
Established in 1999, Bodegas Bhilar remains a family-run project deeply rooted in Rioja Alavesa. David Sampedro comes from generations of winegrowers in Elvillar and has become one of the region’s strongest advocates for sustainable viticulture. The estate farms some of the area’s oldest vineyards and focuses on preserving traditional farming practices while producing wines of precision and authenticity.
Vineyards and Terroir
The vineyards cover approximately 9.5 hectares across high-altitude sites in Rioja Alavesa. Limestone-rich soils, rocky outcrops and the cooling influence of the Sierra Cantabria mountains contribute freshness, structure and mineral character. Many vineyard parcels contain old vines, including some planted in the early 1900s, producing naturally low yields and concentrated fruit.
Biodynamic Farming
Biodynamic farming has been central to the estate since its inception. The vineyards are certified organic and farmed according to biodynamic principles, with horses replacing tractors since 2014 to minimize soil compaction and encourage vineyard vitality. The winery also operates using renewable solar energy, reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Winemaking
Fermentations occur naturally with indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention. The wines are produced to highlight vineyard character rather than cellar influence. The portfolio includes Village Wines, Village Estate Wines and Single Vineyard Wines, each offering a different expression of Rioja Alavesa’s terroirs and native grape varieties.
Wine Style
The wines combine purity, freshness and depth. Tempranillo forms the backbone of the reds, supported by Garnacha, Graciano and other indigenous varieties. Expect vibrant fruit, floral aromatics, mineral tension and refined structure. The whites show energy, texture and remarkable precision.
At a Glance
- Region: Rioja Alavesa, Spain
- Founded: 1999
- Owners: David Sampedro & Melanie Hickman
- Vineyard Area: 9.5 ha
- Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
- Main Varieties: Tempranillo, Garnacha, Graciano, Viura
- Signature Wines: Phinca Lali, Phinca Abejera, Bhilar Tinto
- Specialty: Biodynamic Rioja from Old-Vine Limestone Vineyards
Trade Resources
Need pricing, availability or product sheets for this producer?
