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Txakoli, with its strong link between land and sea, reflects all that the Basque Country is.
This light, crisp white wine has evolved over the centuries since it was first made in farmhouses to become a quality product appreciated with world over.
Its crisp, slightly acid flavour is unmistakeable, just like the experience of enjoying it in the wineries where it is made, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Txakoli has its origins in the baserriak, Basque farmhouses, as far back as the 9th century, from which there are records of wine making in the region. Although very widespread, it was produced to supply the farms themselves, each of which made its own txakoli and invited the neighbours to celebrate and taste its harvests. In fact, originally it was so homemade that, like the local cider, it had to be poured out from a height to drink it.
At the end of the 19th century txakoli became a popular drink in bars, not just at home. But it was not until the 80s that some small growers decided to opt for txakoli production, with three designations of origin set up: Getariako Txakolina, Bizkaiko Txakolina and Arabako Txakolina.
Today it is appreciated the world over for its balance, distinctive taste and crispness. It has won several prizes as best white wine and its taste is gaining more and more fans.
In the Basque Country we have 3 different Designations of Origin, based in each historic region, each of them with its own unique character: Getariako Txakolina, Bizkaiko Txakolina and Arabako Txakolina (Takoli from Getaria - Gipuzkoa, Txakoli from Bizkaia and Txakoli from Álava).
Made primarily from the local grape varieties Hondarrabi Zuri, Hondarrabi Zuri Zerratia and Hondarrabi Beltza, the mountainous terrain and the sea breeze give this wine a unique character and flavour - the essence of the Basque Country.
If you love fine food and wine tourism, there's nothing to beat a Txakoli tasting on your visit to the Basque Country. Most of the wineries offer the chance to try their white Txakoli, as well as the red and rosé txakolis they make using local Basque grape varieties.
Round off the experience by accompanying your tasting with some pintxos and the sea views many of the wineries can offer. You can find wineries offering these experiences in Bizkaia, Álava and Gipuzkoa, but most of them are to be found in Getaria and Zumaia.
Txakoli is part of our essence and culture, so much so that the localities with this tradition organise annual festivities to open the first bottles of the previous year's harvest once they are ready to try.
Places like Bakio and Getaria attract more and more people every year to try traditional Txakoli and enjoy the festivities, Basque culture, sports and fairs organised as part of this celebration.
All this takes place in March and April, so if you're in the Basque Country take a look at our what's on so as not to miss anything.
Txakoli is characterised by its crispness, balanced acidity and fruity touches, making it a perfect wine to go with Basque food. Served chilled, it is poured from a height into the glass to bring out its aroma and give it a slightly sparkling touch.
It is the ideal accompaniment for fish, shellfish and pintxos, bringing out all their flavour and freshness. It also goes perfectly with local cheeses like Idiazabal, with its smoky, creamy touch. So, on your visit to the Basque Country, don't miss the chance to try it at one of the many wineries that offer tastings and guided tours.
Txakoli is much more than a wine: it is an expression of the tradition, culture and natural setting of the Basque Country. Whether enjoying it in a picturesque restaurant with sea views or at a winery in the heart of the hills, this wine always has something special to offer.
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