Ophites white Irouléguy 2024 Arretxea | Southwest

Discover the 2024 Ophites white Irouléguy | Arretxea

The Ophites 2024 from the Arretxea estate is one of the most distinctive white wines ofthe Irouléguy appellation. Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees in southwestern France, this Basque estate has been cultivating its vines on exceptional plots for several decades. The Ophites cuvée takes its name directly from the soil in which it is grown: ophites, a type of volcanic rock.

Terroir and Grape Varieties

Arretxea’s plots rest on ophite soils—volcanic rocks that impart a pronounced minerality to the wine. These poor, well-drained soils force the vines to root deeply, resulting in a concentrated and taut wine. The blend combines 60% Gros Manseng, which adds roundness and aromatic richness, with 40% Petit Manseng, which enhances freshness and length.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Committed to biodynamic viticulture since 1998, Arretxea is one of the appellation’s pioneering estates. The grapes are harvested by hand, and fermentation takes place in large oak casks, which preserve the finesse of the aromas without imposing the character of the wood. The wine is then aged in these casks for 10 months, allowing it to develop balance while retaining its freshness.

Ophites white Irouléguy 2024 | Arretxea: The Sommelier’s Review

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin

Irouléguy is one of France’s least well-known appellations. The Ophites stands out for its minerality, derived from the volcanic soils, which complements the aromas of Gros Manseng and Petit Manseng. This dry white wine elegantly combines fruit and freshness. I recommend decanting it for about 20 minutes and serving it between 10 and 12 °C in fine glasses. It can be enjoyed now or cellared.

The Nose

The nose reveals aromas of citrus, pear, and candied apricot, accompanied by floral and exotic fruit notes. A mineral touch, almost briny, rounds out the profile with finesse.

Palate

The palate is rich and harmonious, with generous body and lovely freshness. The acidity adds vibrancy and extends the tasting experience. The finish is long, mineral, and mouthwatering, with lovely aromatic persistence.

Irouléguy: Everything You Need to Know About This Appellation

The Irouléguy appellation is one of the smallest and best-preserved in the French wine region. It lies in the heart of the Basque Country, on steep south-facing slopes sheltered by the Pyrenees. The appellation is characterized by a wide variety of soils, ranging from schist to sandstone, with a few rare plots of ophitic rock of volcanic origin. The local white grape varieties— Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng, and Petit Courbu—produce dry wines that combine freshness, tension, and minerality, a unique profile in southwestern France.

The Ophites d’Arretxea precisely showcases the potential of Irouléguy’s white wines. Sourced from plots with volcanic soils and produced according to biodynamic principles, this wine stands out within the appellation for its minerality and freshness. A unique cuvée that deserves to be enjoyed beyond the borders of the Basque Country.