Description: Hegoxuri white Irouléguy 2024 | Arretxea
In the heart of the Basque Country, the Arretxea estate has been producing wines since 1989. Founded by Michel and Thérèse Riouspeyrous, it showcases the terroir through authentic wines. Hegoxuri, which means “white from the south” in Basque, is their flagship white wine and a beautiful expression of theIrouléguy vineyard, one of the smallest in France.
Terroirs and Grape Varieties
The 2024 Hegoxuri is made from two plots—one on schist, the other on sandstone—each of which contributes its own unique characteristics to the wine. Facing due south and protected from northern winds by the mountains, the vines benefit from excellent grape ripeness. The warm southern winds also promote concentration and good grape health.
The blend for the Hegoxuri 2024 is based on three grape varieties typical of the appellation: 60% Gros Manseng, for body and richness; 20% Petit Manseng, for freshness and aromas; and 20% Petit Courbu, for balance. Some of the vines come from mass selection, which helps preserve the diversity of the vines.
Viticulture and Winemaking
Michel and Thérèse Riouspeyrous have long practiced biodynamics, well before the approach became trendy. The grapes are harvested by hand, with rigorous sorting in the vineyard and upon arrival at the winery. The winemaking process involves two distinct treatments: 65% of the grapes are pressed immediately, while 35% undergo an 18-hour maceration, which enriches the body without weighing down the profile. Fermentation is natural, using indigenous yeasts. Aging lasts 10 months on the lees, in 1,200-liter casks and 600-liter demi-muids. This choice of vessels promotes slow integration, without overpowering oak notes.
Hegoxuri white Irouléguy 2024 | Arretxea: The Sommelier’s Review
Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin
The Arretxea estate is a benchmark for Irouléguy white wines. With the Hegoxuri 2024, Michel Riouspeyrous has crafted a fresh, balanced wine with lovely acidity. It can be enjoyed now or cellared. I recommend serving it at 11°C, after decanting for an hour to fully appreciate its aromas.
The Nose
The nose opens with fresh citrus, delicate honey, and white flowers, accompanied by notes of ripe fruit and exotic fruits that gradually emerge. A subtle mineral undertone discreetly evokes the schist and sandstone of its terroir.
Palate
On the palate, the attack is soft and generous, carried by a rich texture and ripe fruit with stone fruit accents. The acidity then takes over—lively and mouth-watering—bringing the whole wine into sharp focus. The finish is lingering, slightly mineral, and leaves a distinct impression of purity.
Irouléguy: An Appellation at the Edge of the Basque World
The Irouléguy appellation, recognized as an AOC since 1970, is nestled in the Pyrenean foothills of the French Basque Country. It is one of the smallest appellations in France, with vineyards planted on often steep slopes. The local grape varieties— Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng, and Petit Courbu—produce fresh, fruity white wines with lovely minerality.
The Hegoxuri 2024 is a lovely white wine from Irouléguy that beautifully expresses the richness of its terroir. Made from grapes grown on schist and sandstone soils, it offers wonderful complexity. It pairs perfectly with Basque specialties such as grilled baby squid, trout, or Ossau-Iraty sheep’s milk cheese.
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