Located in Irouléguy, in the heart of the Basque country, Domaine Arretxea (literally “the house of stone”) has been managed by Thérèse and Michel Riouspeyrous since 1989. This family-owned property, belonging at one time to grandfather Michel, spreads over 8 hectares. They grow Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes, and Petit Manseng, Gros Manseng and Courbu for their whites. The domaine has been certified organic since 1998 and is now also biodynamic. Domaine Arretxea has come to be one of the best representatives of this region’s wines.

As its name suggests, this cuvée, from a well-regarded property in the South West, is produced on a sandstone terroir. It is beautifully clear and bright in appearance, with invigorating aromas of citrus, exotic and stone fruits, and grapefruit zest. On the palate, its polished and crystalline texture culminates in a long and elegantly bitter finish.