Bodegas Bhilar: A Biodynamic Jewel in Rioja Alavesa
Bodegas Bhilar, located in the village of Elvillar, Rioja Alavesa, is a boutique winery known for its biodynamic practices and commitment to crafting terroir-driven wines. The winery is run by husband-and-wife team David Sampedro and Melanie Hickman, who share a passion for sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking. Founded in 1999, the winery focuses on using indigenous grape varieties, including Tempranillo, Viura, Graciano, and Garnacha, all grown on the estate’s limestone-rich soils.
Terroir and Vineyards
Elvillar’s unique terroir is marked by its high-altitude, cool-climate vineyards, with soils rich in limestone and rocky elements that give the wines a distinct minerality and freshness. The vineyards span over 9.5 hectares and are planted with some of the oldest vines in Rioja, some dating back to 1910. The region’s climate and soil contribute to low yields but exceptional quality, with the grapes benefiting from the cooler temperatures brought by the nearby Sierra Cantabria mountains.
Biodynamic and Organic Practices
David Sampedro, a winemaker with deep roots in the region, adopted biodynamic farming methods in 1999, converting his vineyards to organic practices to restore balance between the land, the vines, and the ecosystem. In 2014, he eliminated the use of tractors, returning to traditional farming methods with horses to preserve the soil’s integrity and maintain close contact with the vines. The winery also operates “off the grid,” utilizing solar power for energy.
Wine Philosophy and Production
At Bodegas Bhilar, the winemaking process is as natural as possible, with fermentations occurring spontaneously using native yeasts. The wines are crafted with minimal human intervention to showcase the purity of the fruit and terroir. The winery produces wines under three categories: Village Wines, Village Estate Wines, and Single Vineyard Wines, each reflecting different expressions of the land. Notably, their Phinca Lali wine comes from vines planted over a century ago, demonstrating the winery’s commitment to preserving the history and quality of Rioja Alavesa.
