2024 Astobiza Txakoli

If you’ve ever been to the Basque Country, you’ll know Txakoli is part of the rhythm of life. Poured from a height into tumblers, splashed around with seafood and pintxos, it’s the ultimate refresher.

Astobiza’s version comes from a small ten-hectare vineyard in Álava, tucked into the hills just outside Bilbao. It’s almost all Hondarrabi Zuri (the local white grape), grown on rocky soils and cooled by Atlantic breezes. Everything is done by hand in the vineyard, and the winemaking is about keeping things as simple as possible.

The 2024 is pitch-perfect Txakoli: crisp, zesty and brimming with energy. Expect crunchy pear, grapefruit, a touch of peach and that salty, mineral edge that makes the style so addictive. It’s light on its feet but lingers longer than you’d think, finishing with that tiny bitter twist that keeps it refreshing.

This is the sort of bottle you want cold, with a plate of calamari or oysters, or just poured generously as the sun goes down. If you’re after something different from your usual dry white, this is a great alternative.