Gorka Izagirre G22 2024

Gorka Izagirre is a family winery in Larrabetzu, Vizcaya, founded in the 1990s to revive the D.O. Bizkaiko Txakolina and its native grapes. This wine is made from Hondarrabi Zuri Zerratie, a local white variety, grown across steep green hillsides close to the Bay of Biscay. The climate here is cool and Atlantic, with high rainfall and constant sea breezes, so the grapes hold sharp acidity and a distinct salinity that defines Txakoli. Rather than the light, spritzy style the region is known for, the G22 is given eight months on its fine lees in stainless steel tanks. This extended lees contact, with periodic stirring, releases mannoproteins that soften the wine and add a subtle bready, doughy depth, while the neutral steel keeps the fruit clean and the acidity intact. The wine is pale with green tints. The nose blends ripe pear and green apple with white flowers and a lift of pink grapefruit. On the palate it is dry and precise, with citrus peel, a fine texture from the lees and a salty, mineral finish. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees. It is a fine aperitif and pairs with fresh anchovies, oysters and grilled white fish.