Xarmant is made from sustainably-farmed, estate vineyards of indigenous grapes from the Arabako Txakolina DO in the verdant Basque Country, close to the Bay of Biscay on Spain’s rugged Atlantic coast. This proximity to the ocean creates an ideal microclimate, defined by the brisk, northerly waters, and the humid north-northwest wind blowing off them, which cools the vines even on the hottest summer afternoons. The breathtaking Orduña Valley forms a sweeping horseshoe-shaped protective barrier around the vineyards and village, which moderates the climate year-round. Nearby, one can hear the rumble of the epic Salto del Nervión, Western Europe’s highest waterfall, featuring a jaw-dropping 300m drop.
These dramatic geological features belie the friendly, humble nature of both the people and the wines here in Álava. It’s no coincidence that the family named their wine Xarmant (“charming”), as we’ve yet to find a soul that can resist the charms of their lovingly and carefully made, unmistakably Basque wines.
Vinification
Grape varieties are harvested separately based on ripeness, and the must is extracted using a pneumatic press. After a brief cold maceration, each variety ferments separately in stainless steel tanks, utilizing native yeasts. The wine then ages on the lees for two months, before being blended and stored at low temperatures in stainless steel for stabilization until bottling. Per the style in Álava, Xarmant is bottled with less naturally occurring residual carbon dioxide than txakoli from other regions, like Getaria.
Region
Arabako Txakolina
Village/Vineyards
21ha across 11 estate vineyards in Amurrio
Elevation
300m
Grapes
80% Hondarrabi Zuri / 10% Petit Corbu / 5% Gros Manseng / 5% Petit Manseng
Vine Age
Planted between 1986
Soil
Deep alluvial soil with loam and calcareous elements
Fermentation
Indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks
Aging
Two months in tank on the lees without bâtonnage
Farming
Practicing organic
Vegan
Yes
ABV
12.5%
Pack Size
12x750mL Bottles / 4x250mL Cans / 1x20L Recyclable One-way UniKeg