Bodegas Alvia: a winery with a difference

Alfredo Bernáldez is building his very own story at the helm of Bodegas Alvia. This identity rests on old vineyards, long ageing times in barrels and bottles and a collection of wines made from some of Rioja’s main grape varieties. Bernáldez produces a range of truly distinctive wines: “We knew from the start that we had to be different; we couldn’t be just one more among the 500 wineries operating in Rioja,” says the winemaker. Alvia has managed to carve out an important niche for itself as a quality wine producer abroad, making up for the domestic sluggishness. “We don’t intend to and can’t compete on price; we have always been committed to the Livius range of varietal wines, sourced from old vines and with a strong identity,” he adds.

For years, Bernáldez sought out old, characterful vineyards, owned by veteran winegrowers. With his mind set on the long term, he entrusted them to grow their grapes in their own way and paid them fair prices. Bernáldez searched for years for old vineyards, with personality, owned by historic winegrowers. He created Livius, a collection of Viura, Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano varietals, invested in good quality barrels and marketed his attractive, classically designed bottles abroad. At present, 85% of his wines are sold on international markets where Rioja is not usually found.

The winery was established in 2010, when he purchased facilities in Ventosa, a village in the heart of the Camino de Santiago. Over time, he has fitted it with the necessary technology and adapted it for the development of wine tourism activities. Bodegas Alvia’s range of varietals from old vineyards features the following wines: Livius Blanco, made from 90-year-old Viura and Malvasía vines; Livius Garnacha, sourced from old vines in Alto Najerilla; Livius Tempranillo, a selection of vineyards between 70 and 90 years old, many of them located in Huércanos; and Livius Graciano, a powerful and structured wine that is also elegant. One of its latest releases is an original rosé made from old Garnacha vines fermented in oak barrels and with great ageing potential ahead.

Alfredo Bernáldez also produces Mileto Crianza and Reserva, a more affordable range, meant to be enjoyed by the glass in bars and restaurants. If you walk the Camino de Santiago you won’t need to stray at all from the path to visit Bodegas Alvia —the Pilgrim’s Route runs right outside its front door.