Bodegas Bhilar: A Boutique Winery in Rioja

Husband and Wife Lead Bodegas Bhilar

Bodegas Bhilar is a charming boutique winery located in Elvillar, Rioja Alavesa, run by the dedicated husband and wife duo, David Sampedro and Melanie Hickman. Their mission is to create terroir-driven wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the land while honoring the environment. Since its establishment in 1999, the family-owned winery has embraced biodynamic practices, focusing on local, indigenous grape varieties to produce exceptional wines for enthusiasts around the globe.

Biodynamic Philosophy at the Winery

David began his journey into biodynamic farming in 1999, transforming his approach to vineyard management. The first step was converting to organic farming, which restored the vital balance between nature and agriculture. In 2014, horses were introduced to the estate, eliminating the use of tractors. Winemaker David Gil believes that the finest wines originate in the vineyard, and his philosophy emphasizes sustainable agriculture and minimal human intervention to create distinctive wines.

Natural Wines and Other Products

The vineyards at Bodegas Bhilar are home to Garnacha, Tempranillo, Viura, and Graciano grapes, which are crafted into both red and white wines. The winemaking process is entirely natural, with no additives used and spontaneous fermentation initiated by native yeast. The winery operates off the electric grid, utilizing solar panels to power the estate sustainably. Visitors to Bodegas Bhilar can enjoy tastings of their exquisite wines while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.