Irouléguy 2024 Arretxea | Southwest

Description: Irouléguy 2024 | Arretxea

Domaine Arretxea ’sIrouléguy 2024 is produced in the heart of the Basque Country, in a small 240-hectare mountain vineyard located on the slopes of the Western Pyrenees. The Riouspeyrous family has been growing grapes there since the early 1990s.

Terroir and Grape Varieties

The plots are situated between 200 and 400 meters above sea level, terraced on steep slopes. The red sandstone and schist soils ensure good drainage and promote deep root growth. Facing due south, the plots enjoy ample sunshine, while the Pyrenees shield them from ocean winds. The influence of the Atlantic, however, brings mildness and humidity. This blend of mountain and oceanic climates gives Irouléguy wines their unique character in the Southwest.

The blend consists of 70% Tannat, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Tannat provides structure and power, Cabernet Franc adds freshness and aromas, while Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the overall balance.

Viticulture and Winemaking

The estate has been practicing biodynamic farming since 1993 and has been certified organic since 1998. The grapes are harvested by hand—due to the steep slopes—and then destemmed before fermentation. The wine is then aged for 12 months in concrete tanks, a choice that preserves the fruit’s aromas and the terroir’s minerality without introducing woody notes.

Irouléguy 2024 | Arretxea: The Sommelier’s Review

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin

In my opinion, Arretxea’sIrouléguy is one of the must-try wines from this lesser-known appellation. The Tannat reveals its full richness here, with well-balanced tannins thanks to the estate’s winemaking and the red sandstone soils. This wine can be enjoyed right away, after an hour of decanting at 16°C in fine glasses, or cellared to appreciate its evolution. A red wine with character, true to its Basque terroir.

The Nose

The nose reveals aromas of red fruits, particularly morello cherry, accompanied by notes of licorice and anise. A hint of prune adds depth, while a subtle mineral note evokes the red sandstone terroir.

Palate

On the palate, the attack is round and fruity, almost velvety, supported by well-integrated tannins. The lively acidity lifts the wine and gives it structure, while balancing the whole. The finish is long, with a pleasant sensation of freshness that leaves you wanting more.

Irouléguy: Everything You Need to Know About This Appellation

The Irouléguy appellation, recognized as an AOC since 1970 and as an AOP since 2013, covers just 240 hectares in the French Basque Country. It is one of the smallest mountain vineyards in France. The sandstone and schist soils, the altitude, and the dual climatic influences of the Atlantic and the Pyrenees make it a unique terroir. The red wines are primarily made from Tannat, supplemented by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyard’s history dates back to the 11th century, with the monks of Roncesvalles.

In this context, Arretxea’s Irouléguy 2024 embodies the appellation’s most authentic expression. Biodynamic farming practices, controlled yields, and aging in concrete tanks help preserve the grapes’ qualities and the expression of the red sandstone terroir. An authentic wine, marked by its Pyrenean origins.