Founded in 1859 by a group of Bordelais to export to the wine-starved French market after phylloxera had ravaged its vineyards. Its original name was Savignon Frères & Cie, but was changed to Bilbaínas after being purchased by a group of Bilbao businessmen. The Spanish royal family, Winston Churchill, and Salvador Dalí were among the wine's ardent admirers. The wines represent classic Rioja in both history and character. They are based in Haro, as are other iconic bodegas such as Muga, La Rioja Alta, Cune, Lopez de Heredia.