In the far west of Asturias, where steep slopes and sunlit valleys shape the landscape, lies Siluvio: a family-run bodega that balances tradition, nature and technology. Founded by Ladislao Méndez León (“Lalo”) and his wife Leticia Sobrino, Siluvio is the result of a shared dream and years of experience in quality products. What began as a delicatessen has grown into a modern wine project aiming to capture the character of Asturias in every bottle.
Wine from the Landscape
Siluvio’s vineyards are located in Ibias, on land that was once a riverbed. The sandy-loam soil, scattered with rounded stones, still tells the story of the waters that flowed here for centuries. Thanks to its sheltered location and unique microclimate, this is one of the sunniest and driest spots in the Principality of Asturias — a true rarity in this generally rainy region. The valley forms a natural amphitheatre, offering a spectacular view of the vineyards that cascade down the slopes in terraces.
Heroic Viticulture
Siluvio is part of a select group in Europe dedicated to so-called “heroic viticulture”: grape growing on steep mountainsides, often above 500 metres, where mechanisation is impossible. Only 5% of vineyards in Europe meet these demanding conditions. It’s labour-intensive work, but the result is grapes of exceptional quality. At Siluvio, everything is done by hand, with deep respect for the land and a strong connection to the environment. Every grape is the result of dedication, physical effort, and knowledge passed down from generation to generation.
The Bodega
Built in 2018, the winery stands right next to the vineyards. The 600 m² building combines the latest technology with artisanal precision. Grapes are harvested by hand, cooled, selected and processed across two levels. On the upper floor, grapes are sorted and pressed; below, the juice rests in vats and tanks as it slowly becomes wine. Temperature control, gentle pressing, and gravity-fed systems help preserve pure aromas and allow each wine to develop its own character.
Siluvio white wine is a blend of wine fermented and aged in the following way:
- First fermentation 100% inox
- Aging for 12 months
- 50% inox
- 50% divided among: French oak barrel 225 L and 500 L and cement concret tanks
The Wines
Siluvio’s white wine is made from 100% Albarín Blanco. After a brief maceration and gentle pressing, the juice ferments at low temperatures. Part of the wine ages for nine months in used 225 liter French oak barrels; the rest on stainless steel (100% inox) with lees contact. The result is a fresh, aromatic wine with bright acidity and a smooth finish.
The red blend combines local varieties such as Albarín Tinto, Carrasquín and Negra Verdejo. After a manual harvest, the wine is fermented in stainless steel and aged for 16 months — partly in oak, partly in steel. It delivers a refined, balanced wine with notes of fruit, minerality, and a subtle touch of oak.
More than Wine
Siluvio is more than just a winery — it’s a philosophy. A tribute to the Asturian landscape, the strength of family ties, and a firm belief in the future of local viticulture. Every bottle is a testament to dedication, craftsmanship and respect for nature.
In a region where winemaking was once nearly lost, Siluvio is setting a new standard — with wines that tell a story of origin, character and love for the land.
