Bodegas Bilbaínas is a place where cobblestone courtyards echo with stories of innovation, where underground cellars hum with the silence of aging wines, and where every glass reflects the heart of Rioja. For those seeking a luxurious immersion into Spain’s most celebrated wine region, there is no better destination.
Bodegas Bilbaínas has been crafting extraordinary wines since 1901, but its roots run even deeper. The estate’s origin story began in 1859, when French winemakers fleeing the devastating phylloxera outbreak settled in Haro. Recognising Rioja’s potential, Savignon Frères & Cie. planted the seeds of what would become a Spanish wine icon.
In 1904, the winery released its first vintage of Viña Pomal, now one of Rioja’s most revered labels. This wine epitomizes the essence of traditional Rioja: lush, velvety reds crafted with precision and aged to perfection in American oak. It’s no surprise that Viña Pomal has become synonymous with excellence, gracing tables around the globe.
An Oak Barrel Shapes the Signature Taste of Viña Pomal
Mayte Calvo de la Banda, Bodegas Bilbaínas’ Winemaker and Director, describes the winery’s philosophy succinctly: “Wine begins in the vineyard. It’s about understanding every plot, every vine, and elevating what nature provides to create something unforgettable.”
What sets Bodegas Bilbaínas apart is its unparalleled vineyard ownership — 250 hectares of prime Rioja Alta terrain, with over half surrounding the winery itself. This “château-style” model ensures that grapes move seamlessly from vine to barrel, preserving their purity and character.
Visitors can stroll through these picture-perfect vineyards, where Tempranillo, Garnacha, and other native varieties bask under the Rioja sun. Here, wine isn’t just cultivated; it’s a way of life.
While Viña Pomal is the star, Bodegas Bilbaínas offers a collection of wines to suit every preference. La Vicalanda is a luxury label for connoisseurs, showcasing the depth and complexity of small-lot production. The singular cultivar collection, such as the white and red Garnacha, or white Maturana, can be tasted at the Wine Bar or as part of their exciting newly-created tasting flight experiences.
For a touch of effervescence, the winery’s Royal Carlton and Lumen sparkling wines harken back to its early-20th-century innovation with méthode champenoise techniques. Whether still or sparkling, each bottle is crafted with meticulous care, offering a true taste of Rioja.
The winery’s underground cellars are nothing short of a marvel. Spanning 3,400 square meters, these historic tunnels are the largest in Rioja and a sanctuary for aging wine. The cool, stable environment and the faint scent of oak barrels create an atmosphere of quiet anticipation—where the future of each wine slowly takes shape.
Rioja’s Largest Historic Cellars: A 3,400 m² Sanctuary for Aging Wine
Guided tours of these cellars are a highlight for visitors. As you descend into their depths, you’ll feel the weight of history and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
At Bodegas Bilbaínas, wine tourism rises to an art form. Guests are invited to explore the winery’s grand architecture, wander the vineyards, and enjoy guided tastings that bring Rioja’s story to life. From the robust reds of Viña Pomal to the sparkling charm of Royal Carlton, each sip is a revelation.
Seasonal events and pairings with local cuisine offer additional opportunities to indulge in the region’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveller, Bodegas Bilbaínas provides a bespoke experience that lingers long after your visit.
Bodegas Bilbaínas embodies Rioja’s duality: a reverence for tradition paired with an embrace of the future. As one of Rioja’s oldest wineries, it holds a mirror to the past while remaining at the forefront of modern winemaking.
For those who yearn to experience the soul of Rioja in its most luxurious form, Bodegas Bilbaínas awaits—ready to share its history, its wines, and its vision.
Learn more about Bilbao | Rioja Great Wine Capital