Bodegas Bhilar 'Peligroso' Rioja Trousseau 2022

The vibe: A Trousseau Rioja?? Yup! Trousseau is native to Jura and the Rhone, but it is SINGING outside of its natural habitat and on the Atlantic coast of Rioja, Spain. I dig this wine so much. It sees extended skin contact for a broad, expressive profile, yet remains so light on its feet and ready to high dive from the tip of your glass straight down your throat. Structured, yet balanced with crisp acidity and rounded out with a lil’ savory, coastal influence. Add a touch of that good funk, and age it in concrete to keep that fruit direct and unadulterated. That’s it. That’s the recipe right there. 

The winemaker: Bodegas Bhilar is a husband and wife team who farm biodynamically. David and Melanie embraced energy independence early on, utilizing solar and wind power to run their operation. Tractors were replaced with horses, and the winery is fully Demeter certified in conversion. Their land is composed of high-altitude, limestone soils, influenced by cool Atlantic winds. Inspired by Jura, they often use grape varietals native to this region of France, as is the case here! 

The geeky details: 100% Trousseau, native yeast fermented in concrete.

Serve: With a slight chill.

Food pairing: Cod fish in tomato sauce, spicy Riojan chorizo, anything with goat cheese

Album pairing: Savana Funk - Raha