Txakoli Ilun

Buying Txakoli Ilun is always the best idea, as it's a superior txakoli crafted by Gorka Izagirre. This single-varietal txakoli is made from Hondarribi Beltza grapes sourced from vineyards over 15 years old, located in the Biscayan town of Larrabetzu. Production is limited to 4317 bottles. This red wine is made with the ancient and relatively unknown Hondarribi Beltza grape variety. It boasts a pure Atlantic character, distinguished by its freshness and uniqueness.

Ilun, meaning 'dark' and 'god of the night' in Basque, takes us to a little-known part of the world of txakoli, a place that was forgotten but is slowly regaining its place. It's perfect to enjoy with cured meats and white meats, as well as with fish.

Tasting notes for Ilun txakoli

Light in color, it displays a deep cherry-red hue with a beautiful violet rim. It boasts a high aromatic intensity, immediately showcasing the varietal character and its Atlantic origin. Its herbaceous nature is enveloped by aromas of red fruits such as currant and raspberry, with an elegantly spicy touch. The entry is light and very pleasant, with a smooth and velvety texture. The palate, perfectly balanced, is filled with red fruit and herbaceous flavors, culminating in a fresh, balsamic finish. A very easy-drinking wine that invites another glass.

Why buy Gorka Izagirre?

Because Bodegas Gorka Izagirre is a family project that begins in the vineyard and constantly evolves to produce high-quality white wines, maintaining their identity and origin—Bizkaia—unwavering. At Gorka Izagirre, they contribute to the progress and appreciation of Bizkaia wine. Their grapes are the stars: Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Zerratia. Atlantic varieties cultivated in our region, small, concentrated bunches full of character and personality give Gorka Izagirre wines their own unique identity. Hondarrabi Zuri is full of freshness, vibrancy, fruit, and power. Hondarrabi Zerratia, on the other hand, is pure elegance, volume, white flowers, and complexity.

Gorka Izagirre's vineyards comprise 40 hectares divided into small plots nestled within the Bizkaia landscape. Steep, southeast-facing slopes, seeking the morning sun and well-ventilated areas, are the perfect conditions for growing Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Zerratia grapes. They are harvested by hand in October. The low yield per hectare allows for optimal ripening, resulting in structured, high-quality wines.

Finally, at Gorka Izagirre, they see the winery as a tool at the service of the vineyard. At Gorka Izagirre, they work with exceptional grapes, treated in the winery with the same care as in the vineyard. The winery, designed with state-of-the-art winemaking technology and taking into account the layout of the vineyards, allows them to vinify each plot separately and reveal the full potential of the grapes.

The wines created by Bodega Gorka Izagirre are: G22 , Arima , 42 by Eneko Atxa , Gorka Izagirre, Ama, and Ilun. Gorka Izagirre is a young white wine, a blend of the local varieties Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Zerratia. It's an excellent aperitif and pairs perfectly with seafood and fish. Cheerful, appetizing, dry, fresh, and with a very pleasant finish. 42 by Eneko Atxa is barrel-fermented, a magnificent blend of Hondarrabi Zerratia, its lees, and oak. 42 pairs perfectly with grilled fish, white meats, and smoked cheeses. A unique, subtle, and sophisticated wine, a true lover of fine dining. G22 is a wine aged on its lees, capturing the very essence of the best Hondarrabi Zerratia in a bottle. A versatile wine that pairs beautifully with fish, white meats, rich sauces, and delicate cheeses. Smooth, elegant, and complex, with excellent aging potential, designed to be enjoyed now and in the future. Finally, Arima is the sweetest version . A late harvest wine made with Hondarrabi Zerratia grapes picked in November. A sweet melody with fresh notes that pairs perfectly with cheeses, desserts, and foie gras. Silky, mature, and enveloping. A wine that will captivate your soul.

Ama is the pure expression of the ripe Hondarrabi Zerratia grape, produced only in the warmest vintages of Bizkaia. The exceptional summer of 2015, combined with the meticulous work of the team in both the vineyard and the winery, has allowed them to create AMA, an elegant, subtle, and silky wine that stimulates not only the senses but also the emotions.