Arretxea
Domaine Arretxea is a small, family-run winery located in the Irouléguy appellation, nestled in the heart of the French Basque Country. Founded by Thérèse and Michel Riouspeyrous, the estate is a pioneering producer in this lesser-known but remarkable wine region. Arretxea, meaning "stone house" in Basque, reflects the winery's deep connection to its rugged, mountainous terroir and the region's traditions.
The estate practices biodynamic viticulture, focusing on the preservation of the natural environment and enhancing the expression of the local terroir. With vineyards planted on steep, terraced slopes of schist, limestone, and sandstone soils, Arretxea crafts wines that are vibrant, mineral-driven, and deeply expressive of Irouléguy’s unique character.
The winery primarily works with indigenous grape varieties such as Tannat, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Manseng, producing both structured, age-worthy reds and aromatic, fresh whites. Arretxea’s wines are celebrated for their purity, balance, and their ability to capture the essence of the Basque landscape.
Domaine Arretxea is a small, family-run winery located in the Irouléguy appellation, nestled in the heart of the French Basque Country. Founded by Thérèse and Michel Riouspeyrous, the estate is a pioneering producer in this lesser-known but remarkable wine region. Arretxea, meaning "stone house" in Basque, reflects the winery's deep connection to its rugged, mountainous terroir and the region's traditions.
The estate practices biodynamic viticulture, focusing on the preservation of the natural environment and enhancing the expression of the local terroir. With vineyards planted on steep, terraced slopes of schist, limestone, and sandstone soils, Arretxea crafts wines that are vibrant, mineral-driven, and deeply expressive of Irouléguy’s unique character.
The winery primarily works with indigenous grape varieties such as Tannat, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Manseng, producing both structured, age-worthy reds and aromatic, fresh whites. Arretxea’s wines are celebrated for their purity, balance, and their ability to capture the essence of the Basque landscape.
Domaine Arretxea is a small, family-run winery located in the Irouléguy appellation, nestled in the heart of the French Basque Country. Founded by Thérèse and Michel Riouspeyrous, the estate is a pioneering producer in this lesser-known but remarkable wine region. Arretxea, meaning "stone house" in Basque, reflects the winery's deep connection to its rugged, mountainous terroir and the region's traditions.
The estate practices biodynamic viticulture, focusing on the preservation of the natural environment and enhancing the expression of the local terroir. With vineyards planted on steep, terraced slopes of schist, limestone, and sandstone soils, Arretxea crafts wines that are vibrant, mineral-driven, and deeply expressive of Irouléguy’s unique character.
The winery primarily works with indigenous grape varieties such as Tannat, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Manseng, producing both structured, age-worthy reds and aromatic, fresh whites. Arretxea’s wines are celebrated for their purity, balance, and their ability to capture the essence of the Basque landscape.
Biodyna
Organic
Biodynamic
Natural
Socials
The wines of Domaine Arretxea are a reflection of the unique terroir of the Irouléguy appellation in the French Basque Country. Crafted from indigenous grape varieties grown on steep, terraced slopes with biodynamic practices, these wines are celebrated for their purity, minerality, and authentic expression of the region. The portfolio includes both red and white wines, each offering a distinctive taste of the rugged and vibrant Basque landscape.
Red Wines
Irouléguy Rouge
A blend dominated by Tannat, with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, the red wines are structured and age-worthy.
Characteristics: Aromas of dark fruits like blackcurrant and plum, with notes of spices, licorice, and earthy undertones. On the palate, they are full-bodied, with firm tannins and a pronounced minerality, showcasing the influence of the schist and limestone soils. These reds age beautifully, developing complex secondary aromas over time.
Cuvée Haitza
A special cuvée, typically emphasizing Tannat, often aged in oak for additional complexity.
Characteristics: Rich and powerful, with layers of blackberry, tobacco, and hints of cocoa. The wine is dense yet balanced, with a long, savory finish, making it a standout expression of Irouléguy's red potential.
White Wines
Irouléguy Blanc
Made primarily from Petit Manseng, with additions of Gros Manseng and occasionally Courbu, the white wines are aromatic, fresh, and mineral-driven.
Characteristics: Notes of citrus, green apple, and white flowers, complemented by saline minerality. On the palate, they are crisp and vibrant, with refreshing acidity and a long, clean finish. These whites pair wonderfully with seafood and Basque cuisine.
Cuvée Hegoxuri
A more complex white wine, often showcasing Petit Manseng and fermented or aged in barrels.
Characteristics: Aromas of ripe stone fruits, citrus zest, and subtle oak spice. The palate is rich and textured, with a balanced acidity that adds freshness and a long, elegant finish. This wine has excellent aging potential.
Sweet Wines
Late-Harvest Petit Manseng
Produced in select vintages, this dessert wine captures the richness and complexity of Petit Manseng when harvested late.
Characteristics: Intense aromas of honey, apricot, and tropical fruits, with a luscious sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity. A perfect companion to desserts or blue cheeses.
Overall Style
Arretxea’s wines are marked by their terroir-driven authenticity, with a clear focus on minerality and balance. The reds are robust yet elegant, showcasing the structured character of Tannat, while the whites are lively and aromatic, highlighting the freshness and complexity of Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng. These wines, crafted with respect for nature and tradition, offer a genuine taste of the Basque Country’s rugged beauty.
