Bengoetxe Getariako Txakolina

Distinctive wines, wines that speak of their terruño, come from lovingly tended and organically farmed grapes. It is this nurturing philosophy, rare in the Basque Country, a region dominated by industrial farming and winemaking, which drives Iñaki and Rosa Maria Etxeberria to produce Bengoetxe. Classic and slow wild yeast fermentation takes place in small 3.000 litros vats, located in their home garage, then the wine is raised on the lees up to a year with no batonnage. SO2 levels are kept to a minimum and because all CO2 “is natural” (not injected) the wine does not often show the spritzy character of other Txakolis from Getaria.

This is a "Real" Basque Country wine to pair with Serrano ham, sheep’s cheeses, poultry as well as fresh seafood. We can’t help but feel like this was how the Txakolis of the past tasted before comercial yeast, chemicals and heavy filtration took hold of the region. With Bengoetxe, we feel we have unearthed an authenthic and treasured puzzle piece of Basque winegrowing history. - Jose Pastor Selections

About the Winemaker

Bengoetxe Getariako Txakolina

Bengoetxe is the result of a nurturing philosophy rare in the Basque Country, where industrial farming and winemaking dominate. Iñaki and Rosa Maria Etxeberria are driven by their love for distinctive wines that speak of their terruño, lovingly tending to organically farmed grapes. Our first encounter with Bengoetxe was the 2009 vintage, a wine that astounded us with its stone fruit, beeswax, and mineral depth. It begged the question: Was this Riesling? Chenin? Basque wine? How did it possess such lovely intensity without oak or obvious tricks? From Getaria, really?

The Etxeberria's baserria, perched high on a clay slope, has a long history and unique terruño, giving birth to the single wine they produce.

bengoetxe getariako txakolina winemaker

The Region

Basque Country, Spain

The Basque Country, nestled in the northern part of Spain and southwestern France, is renowned for its rugged coastline, vibrant culture, and culinary delights. In recent years, the region has also embraced natural winemaking, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and innovation. With its diverse terroir, including coastal cliffs, lush valleys, and mountainous terrain, the Basque Country offers an ideal environment for organic and biodynamic viticulture. Natural winemakers in the region prioritize native grape varieties such as Hondarrabi Zuri, Hondarrabi Beltza, and Txakoli with minimal intervention. By eschewing chemical additives and focusing on natural fermentation, they produce wines that capture the essence of the Basque landscape. Basque Country's natural wines are known for their freshness, minerality, and unique coastal influence. Whether it's the crisp and lively Txakoli whites or the earthy and expressive reds, these wines reflect the region's rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainable winemaking. As the demand for authentic and terroir-driven wines continues to grow, the Basque Country remains a dynamic and exciting destination in the world of natural wine.