Txomin Etxaniz Rosado 2025

Txomin Etxaniz is a benchmark name in D.O. Getariako-Txakolina, working 35 hectares of vineyard on slopes above Getaria, right on the Basque coast. This rosado is a coupage of the local Hondarrabi Beltza, the black grape, at 60 per cent with the white Hondarrabi Zuri at 40 per cent. The Atlantic setting defines the wine: cool, damp sea air and steep coastal slopes give very high natural acidity and a marked saline character, the hallmark of Txakoli. The grapes are picked entirely by hand in early October, then macerate for eight to ten hours before a light pressing to draw a pale colour and the fresh, aromatic juice. A cool fermentation preserves the bright fruit and crisp profile. The wine is pale pink, with floral aromas and fresh strawberry and raspberry fruit. The palate is dry, light and taut, with green apple and lemon acidity, a distinct sea-salt minerality and a clean, slightly spritzy finish. Serve well chilled at 7 to 9 degrees. It is a natural aperitif and a fine match for fresh shellfish, grilled sardines and the seafood of its home coast.