Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur, the southernmost expression of Rioja
Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur is a red wine born at the southern edge of the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin. It represents a different way of interpreting the region, shaped more by a Mediterranean climate than by the classic image of the Ebro Valley. At Licorea, we consider it a particularly distinctive reference among modern Rioja wines, created for those seeking new nuances without losing a sense of identity.
This wine forms part of Ramón Bilbao’s Límite range, a collection focused on showing how a vineyard’s precise origin defines the wine’s final character. In this case, the spotlight falls on Rioja Oriental, with its poor soils and a warmer, drier climatic influence.
Origin and vineyards at the southern limit of Rioja
The name Límite Sur is no coincidence. The grapes come from vineyards located in the southernmost part of Rioja, close to the natural boundary with other wine-growing areas. These parcels lie at low to mid altitudes, where sunlight plays a crucial role throughout the vine’s growing cycle.
The soils are predominantly clay-limestone, with stony sections that force the vines to drive their roots deep. This effort results in low yields and more concentrated grapes. The climate combines hot summers with slightly cooler nights, helping to preserve natural acidity.
The main variety is Garnacha, a grape closely associated with this area and which here reveals its most ripe and expressive side. Ramón Bilbao aims to respect the vineyard’s character, avoiding unnecessary interventions in the winery.
Careful winemaking with a contemporary approach
Harvesting is carried out selectively, seeking optimal ripeness. Each parcel is vinified separately to preserve its identity. Fermentation is carefully controlled, with gentle extraction favoured to protect the fruit and avoid heavy notes.
After fermentation, Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur undergoes a measured period of ageing in oak barrels. The aim is not to dominate the wine with wood, but to add structure and complexity without masking its origin. Time in barrel is finely tuned to maintain a fresh, balanced profile.
This approach results in a Rioja red with a more contemporary reading, far removed from overly classical styles or wines dominated by extended ageing.
A different Rioja within our selection
At Licorea, we believe Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur brings something distinctive for lovers of Rioja red wines. Within our range, it is one of the few references that so clearly expresses the influence of the southern part of the appellation.
This Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur is the only wine in our entire Rioja selection that focuses so directly on Garnacha from Rioja Oriental with such a defined style. We feel that for customers used to more traditional profiles, it can be a refreshing and genuinely interesting experience.
Drinking occasions and food pairing
Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur is a versatile wine at the table. It pairs well with grilled meats, small game dishes or richly flavoured stews. It also works comfortably alongside meat-based rice dishes or mature sheep’s milk cheeses.
Thanks to its balance and structure, it is equally suited to special meals or to being enjoyed slowly during a relaxed evening. Serving it at a moderate temperature will allow its aromatic profile to show at its best.
Ramón Bilbao, tradition with an eye on the future
Ramón Bilbao has a long-standing history in Rioja, but in recent years the winery has strongly committed to projects that explore new areas and styles. The Límite range is a clear example of this evolution, placing the vineyard and its origin centre stage.
With Ramón Bilbao Límite Sur, the winery shows that Rioja still has much to say. It is not about breaking with the past, but about expanding it and offering wines that reflect the true diversity of the appellation.
At Licorea, we have selected this wine for those who enjoy discovering new nuances within classic regions. A red wine with its own personality, honest to its origin and easy to appreciate from the very first sip.
