Basque Country

• Hondarrabi Zuri: the heart of Basque white wines, producing light-bodied, zesty, and dry styles with pronounced acidity and a touch of natural spritz; often marked by citrus, green apple, and saline notes.
• Hondarrabi Beltza: native red grape yielding fresh, vibrant wines with red berry fruit, subtle spice, and a lively, food-friendly character; also used in select dry rosés.
• Petit Manseng & Gros Manseng: found in both Arabako Txakolina and Irouléguy, these grapes contribute aromatic intensity, stone fruit, and floral notes to dry whites, balanced by crisp acidity.
• Tempranillo: the backbone of Rioja Alavesa reds, offering structure, ripe red fruit, and silky tannins; often blended for added complexity and impressive aging potential.
• Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo: blending partners in Rioja Alavesa, adding depth, spice, and freshness to the region’s elegant, smooth reds.
• Tannat, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon: hallmark grapes of Irouléguy’s rugged, mountain reds—bold, concentrated, and deeply colored, with firm tannins and earthy undertones.
• Viura (Macabeo), Courbu: key white varieties delivering freshness and subtle floral or mineral qualities to select Basque whites, particularly from Rioja Alavesa and Irouléguy.

The Basque Country's terroir is as diverse as its landscapes, influenced by both oceanic and continental climates. The coastal Txakoli regions benefit from a maritime climate, characterized by cool, humid conditions that impart a unique salty edge to the crisp, high-acid white wines made from the Hondarrabi Zuri grape. These wines thrive in sandy and clay soils, capturing the essence of their environment. Inland, the Rioja Alavesa area enjoys warm days and cool nights, ideal for cultivating Tempranillo. The limestone-rich soil adds depth and elegance to these celebrated reds. Meanwhile, Irouléguy's terraced vineyards experience a blend of oceanic and mountain climates, creating a haven for Tannat and Cabernet Franc, which develop robust, earthy flavors.

The Basque Country is making impressive strides in sustainable winemaking, with a collective effort to embrace environmentally friendly practices. Across its varied landscapes, winemakers are increasingly turning to organic, biodynamic, and sustainable methods to honor their unique terroirs. In coastal areas like Txakolina, where the humid Atlantic climate presents challenges, many are finding innovative ways to manage vineyard health without relying on chemical interventions. Inland, in the drier Rioja Alavesa, a new generation of vintners is committed to regenerative agriculture, focusing on organic farming and minimal intervention to produce wines that reflect the true nature of the land. This shift towards sustainable practices demonstrates a deep respect for the environment and a dedication to preserving the Basque Country's rich winemaking heritage. These methods not only protect the land but also enhance the quality and authenticity of the wines, allowing them to express the region's diverse character. By prioritizing sustainability, the Basque winemakers are ensuring that their traditions will endure, producing wines that resonate with the natural beauty of their landscapes.

The Basque Country offers a multifaceted wine tourism experience, blending vibrant culture, exceptional wines, and stunning scenery. Travelers can explore everything from the lively pintxos bars in San Sebastián to the striking architecture of Rioja Alavesa's wineries. This region is renowned for its culinary excellence, where local wines like the crisp, high-acid Txakoli perfectly complement the area's famous seafood dishes, while robust reds from Rioja Alavesa pair beautifully with hearty fare like lamb stews and Idiazabal cheese. Wine enthusiasts will find a variety of tours and festivals to immerse themselves in the local wine culture. The Rioja Alavesa Wine Route offers a comprehensive view, featuring everything from ancient cellars to modern wineries. Meanwhile, Txakoli regions provide coastal beauty and unique tasting experiences, with places like Getaria at the heart of the Getariako Txakolina DO. For a deeper cultural insight, timing a visit with one of the wine festivals, such as the Haro Wine Festival or Rioja Alavesa Wine Harvest Festival, offers a lively glimpse into the Basque wine traditions.

The Basque Country's wine scene is a captivating tapestry of tradition and innovation, where historic estates and modern pioneers redefine the region's vinous identity. Here are some notable wineries shaping the Basque wine landscape:

• Txomin Etxaniz: The oldest estate in Getariako Txakolina, blending tradition and modern techniques to craft classic and innovative Txakoli styles.
• Ameztoi: A family-run winery since 1820, celebrated for its popular rosé Txakoli, Rubentis, which combines white and red native grapes.
• Gaintza: Known for sustainable practices and wines with a saline character, thanks to their coastal vineyards in Getaria.
• Itsasmendi: An innovator in Bizkaiko Txakolina, pioneering aged Txakoli and late-harvest sweet wines.
• Gorka Izagirre: Part of the Azurmendi complex, redefining Biscay Txakoli with a blend of tradition and technology.
• Astobiza: A leader in Arabako Txakolina, focusing on sustainability and estate-grown wines in the Ayala Valley.
• Marqués de Riscal: A legendary Rioja name, blending historical significance with modern architecture and winemaking techniques.
• Bodegas Ysios: Known for its architectural marvel and focus on single-vineyard, artisanal Rioja Alavesa wines.
• Remírez de Ganuza: Celebrated for its precise grape selection method, resulting in top-quality Reservas and Gran Reservas.
• Cave d'Irouléguy: A cooperative that played a crucial role in reviving Irouléguy, producing a significant portion of the appellation's wine.
• Domaine Arretxea: A biodynamic estate known for its vibrant, mineral-rich wines that express the rugged Basque landscape.