If you had met Ramón Bilbao in the 1920s, you might well have found him with a map in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. Founded in 1924 in the town of Haro – the beating heart of Rioja – the winery was built on a spirit of adventure, curiosity, and discovery.
While other wineries remained firmly attached to centuries-old traditions, Ramón Bilbao consistently looked ahead. It was among the producers that recognized early on that modern wine lovers were looking for more than heavily oaked wines. They wanted freshness, vibrant fruit, energy, balance, and precision.
Today, Ramón Bilbao is regarded as one of Rioja’s most admired wine producers and has repeatedly appeared in The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands rankings. Its style is a tribute to Rioja Alta: elegant and approachable yet complex wines, with carefully judged oak aging designed to enhance the fruit rather than overpower it.
The winery’s visual identity, featuring imagery of journeys and hot-air balloons floating above the vineyards, is no coincidence. It reflects a philosophy of exploration that continues under chief winemaker Rodolfo Bastida, whose work includes investigating new terroirs, vineyard sites, and elevations.
Mirto – Ramón Bilbao’s Flagship Tempranillo
The winery’s flagship wine is Mirto, an impressive expression made from 100% Tempranillo grapes sourced from very old vines – many more than 70 years old – growing in selected villages around Haro.
In the glass, Mirto displays a deep, almost ink-black red color with vivid purple highlights around the rim.
The nose bursts with ripe black fruit, particularly blueberries and dark plum, complemented by luxurious spicy notes. Layers of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, vanilla, and subtle Mediterranean herbs add complexity and depth.
On the palate, Mirto delivers what might best be described as a “velvet punch.” It is powerful and full-bodied, yet its tannins are so polished and supple that they glide effortlessly across the palate.
Well-balanced acidity provides freshness and keeps the wine’s considerable weight in check, leading to an exceptionally long finish with lingering hints of smoke and warm spices.
This is a wine made for genuinely special occasions. Mirto has the structure and concentration to continue developing beautifully in the cellar for at least another decade, while already offering considerable drinking pleasure today.
