Bodegas Bilhar - 'Peligroso - Vichingo' - Trousseau - Rioja Alavesa, ES - 2022

Satellite's Hot Take

An obvious wine club pick for us. This wine is unusual in the most familiar ways - just an odd duck in Rioja - a place where it should totally exist in more quantity!

Notes from the Winery/Importer

Nestled in the elevated terrain of Rioja Alavesa, Bodegas Bhilar embodies the dedication of husband-and-wife team David Sampedro and Melanie Hickman to preserving and enhancing the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Since 1999, they have championed organic and biodynamic practices, harnessing solar energy and wind power to make their winery both environmentally sustainable and energy-independent. Demonstrating a deep respect for the land, they replaced tractors with horses to avoid soil compaction, fostering healthier and more vibrant vines. Their efforts have earned them EU Organic and Demeter certifications (currently in conversion), underscoring their commitment to sustainability.

Enter the world of the extraordinary with Vichingo Trousseau ‘Peligroso’ — a fresh exploration of Rioja’s potential. Planted in the high-altitude village of Elvillar, where shallow, sandy limestone soils meet cool Atlantic winds, this varietal flourishes with a unique character. Fermented with native yeast, the wine bursts with pronounced notes of strawberry and cherry, layered with earthy spice and mineral nuances. Extended skin contact enhances its vibrant ruby color and adds structure, while balanced acidity ensures freshness. With a robust framework, this Trousseau not only delivers captivating flavors but also holds impressive aging potential. A wine for those who relish the road less traveled in winemaking and savor the thrill of discovery.

Notes on the Producer

Bodegas Bhilar is a family winery located in Elvillar, Rioja Alavesa, run by husband and wife, David Sampedro and Melanie Hickman. All 17 hectares (approximately 42 acres) are certified organic, in conversion with Demeter (Biodynamic), and exclusively worked with plough horses. Being a Biodynamic farm, great emphasis is placed on biodiversity. In line with their commitment to sustainability, the entire property is powered by solar panels and a windmill, generating their electricity.For a brief time in the history of Rioja, Trousseau was confused with another grape variety which through DNA testing was discovered to be Maturana Tina. Their tendency to take the road less travelled and the couple's love for Jura, they decided to once again break the rules and experiment with a small plantation of the historically accepted variety of Trousseau.