The Hondarribi Zerratia grapes for the Ama cuvée were de-stemmed but then capped for carbonic maceration with a CO2 addition. After 12 hours the must was pressed for a cool fermentation. The wine aged sur lie in stainless steel and a minor portion of new French barrels, with daily bâtonnage for three weeks. It spent 22 months in bottle before release.
Solid gold, it has an autumnal fragrance of honeyed yellow apple, dried apricots, sultana, washed linen, a hint of nutmeg. The palate continues the theme, with medium acidity and a flare of fresh apricot at the finish. There is some spice (allspice, nutmeg, white pepper) along with abundant fresh and dried fruits.
Don’t serve this wine too cold. It would be outstanding with roasted squash, poultry and game birds, pilafs with nuts and fruits, and curries of fish, beans, or chicken.
2019 Gorka Izagirre Ama Bizkaiko Txakolina DO
13% ABV | $49 (sample); imported by Araex Grands
