Bodega Bhilar Phinca Hapa Blanco

Tim Atkin 94/100 Points - Wine Advocate 91/100 Points

Country: Spain Region: Rioja

Varietal: Viura Vintage: 2020

Colour: White Style: Dry

Producer: Bodegas Bhilar

Description:
Bodegas Bhilar is a boutique winery located in Elvillar, Rioja Alavesa, run by husband and wife team, David Sampedro and Melanie Hickman. Their goal is to make terroir-driven wines with soul, respect the land, work only with indigenous grapes, and to share their unique wines with good people with positive energy.

Sourced primarily from our Estate vineyards with the exception of 1,000 kilos sourced from one vine-grower with vineyards in Elvillar. Under David´s guidance, he has transformed his vineyards and adopted our philosophy of sustainable viticulture, reducing the number of treatments and controlling production.

Harvest and Production:
A west-facing vineyard located in the village of Elvillar, Rioja Alavesa, perched atop a hill at 2,100 feet (646 meters). A 2.9 ha parcel of white chalky limestone soil planted in 1967. We farm the land by horse and follow Biodynamic tenets. Whole cluster grapes are placed in a concrete vat and sealed. The fermentation starts with native yeasts. After the fermentation is 80% finished, the wine is then pressed and placed in 2000-liter French foudres to finish the fermentation and age for one year. A small amount of sulphur was added prior to bottling but at no other point during production.

Tasting Notes:
An original and characterful nose mixing notes of balsam, quince, peach and honey. The palate has a texture that could be from a light red, with fine tannins and a chalky sensation
in the mouth. White fruits on the nose with fresh, elegant and smooth but well structured palate. Tasty and aromatic. Fruity end with pleasant bitter touches, typical of this variety.

Food Pairing:
Cheese, Fish and Foie Gras