From: Getariako Txakolina, Spain
Varietals: 55% Hondarrabi Beltza, 45% Hondarrabi Zuri
The name Hiruzta means “a three-person harvest” in Basque, referring to winery owners Asensio Rekalde and his sons Txarli and Angel, whose shared dream of creating a winery in Hondarribia is now a reality. Txakoli production in this village dates back to 1186, but the tradition was lost during a long stretch of sieges and battles that took place there in the early 1600s. Through years of work the Rekalde family has recovered and revitalized Hondarribia’s viticultural heritage, with nine vineyard plots that surround the winery at the foothills of the Jaizkibel Mountain in the Basque fishing village of Hondarribia. The vines face towards the mid-day sun, in a direction protected from the wind and dampness coming off the nearby Cantabrian sea that enjoys excellent sun exposure.
Tasting Notes: Pink gooseberry in color, with intense red fruit aromas. The strawberry and cassis stand out in particular, with citric depth and fine vegetal notes. It is very fresh in the mouth with a balanced acidity enhanced by natural carbonic gas that facilitates a pleasant transition from mouth to drink, and a long, full aromatic finish.
Pairings: Ideal pairings include appetizers, hors d’oeuvres, mild and semi-cured cheeses, shellfish, fish, rice, pulses, pasta, cold meats, and white meat.