Bilogia Organic – Casa Los Frailes

The label features a photograph taken in 1907 of the Velázquez family at the Casa Los Frailes estate. This represents the eleventh generation of the family, and today, the thirteenth generation continues to operate the winery.

Vinification: The harvest was conducted manually, with each grape variety vinified separately. Following a cold maceration pre-fermentation period at 2ºC for 3 days to enhance aroma extraction, the must underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. Post-fermentation maceration lasted for 18 days for Syrah and 22 days for Monastrell. The Monastrell was aged for 5 months in concrete vats before being transferred to 500L oak barrels, while the Syrah was aged for 12 months in 225L oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: Bilogía displays a vibrant ruby-red colour, indicative of its youthful character. The nose is expressive and inviting, featuring a bouquet of ripe red and black fruits such as cherries, raspberries, and blackberries. There are also subtle floral notes, alongside hints of Mediterranean herbs and spices. The freshness of the wine is complemented by minerality derived from the calcareous soils. On the palate, Bilogía presents itself as lively and refreshing, showcasing an excellent balance between fruitiness and acidity. Flavours of dark fruits dominate, with layers of spice and a touch of earthiness. The mouthfeel is round and smooth, characteristic of its well-integrated tannins, resulting in a pleasing and harmonious wine. The finish is lingering and satisfying, with echoes of fruit flavours and a refreshing minerality that invites another sip.

Pairing Suggestions: Bilogía pairs well with a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or pasta with rich sauces. It also complements charcuterie boards and aged cheeses, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Bilogía embodies the fresh expression of two Mediterranean grape varieties, Monastrell and Syrah, cultivated at the Casa Los Frailes estate. The vineyard’s high altitude, ranging from 650 to 700 meters above sea level, the practice of strict dry farming, the extremely calcareous soils, and the influence of the Mediterranean Sea create a wine that is remarkably fresh, pleasant, and harmonious, inviting the taster to return for another sip.

Soils:

Monastrell: Grown in the single vineyard “La Encina” at an elevation of 650 meters above sea level, the soils consist of sandy, red limestone that is highly calcareous yet rich in iron. This unique composition aids in precipitating active calcareous stones, allowing the grapes to ripen while maintaining good acidity levels. The average age of the Monastrell vineyards is 30 years, and they are managed under dry farming practices.

Syrah: Cultivated in the single vineyard “Via Augusta” at an elevation of 660 meters, this varietal thrives in white limestone and sandy soils (white rendzina) resting on a foundation of lacustrine limestone. The soils are extremely rich in limestone, with lower iron content but sufficient silica levels, enabling deep root penetration. Even in arid years, the vines remain healthy, and their growth cycle is stress-free. These soils impart freshness and minerality to the wine, characteristics that are evident in Bilogía. The average age of the Syrah vineyards is 10 years, and they are cultivated under dry farming methods.