From: Getariako Txakolina, Basque country, Spain
Blend: Hondarabbi Beltza and Hondarabbi Zuri
Tasting Notes: An effusive nose with playful notes of wild strawberries, red currants, and a hint of tangerine zest. As it unfolds, it reveals subtle whispers of sea breeze and a gentle minerality reminiscent of its coastal origins. On the palate, this rosé is refreshing and zesty, showcasing vibrant red berry flavors complemented by an undercurrent of ripe citrus. It is unexpectedly complex, expertly balancing its effervescent acidity with a delicate fruitiness. This rosé offers a satisfyingly long finish, ensuring that its crisp, refreshing character remains memorable. Each sip is like a drop of summer, encapsulating the charm of the Basque Country and its effervescent txakoli tradition.
Pairing: With its lively acidity and tantalizing flavors, the 2023 Lasalde Elkartea Balea Txakoli Rosé is a food-friendly wine that can complement a variety of dishes. It is best paired with light, fresh summer fare that can stand up to its dynamic personality. A perfect picnic pairing would be fresh seafood, such as grilled prawns or a classic shrimp ceviche, as the wine's brisk acidity and subtle minerality enhance the sweet, succulent nature of the shellfish. It also pairs beautifully with traditional Basque pintxos, particularly a gilda skewer with its combination of pickled peppers, green olives, and salt-cured anchovies. The wine's crispness balances the pintxo's saltiness, while its fruitiness complements the dish's tangy flavors.
We recommend enjoying this rosé with Som Tum Thai (Green Papaya Salad) for an easy weeknight pairing centered around anchovy-based fish sauce. We’re sharing the recipe below in case you don’t feel like ordering takeout from your favorite Thai spot.
Som Tum Thai (Green Papaya Salad)
By Molly Wizenberg
About. The Basque region of Spain was once an outpost for whalers and fishermen, starting all the way back in the 11th century. Over the centuries, sailors would travel up the coast to the village of Getaria, trading for barrels of wine. Although whaling is long gone from these parts, the legacy remains; fish from the region’s culture of deep-sea fishing continues to play a significant role in the area’s imaginative cuisine, regarded by many as the best in Spain. This legacy inspires the label design of this fun and friendly 2023 Lasalde Elkartea Balea Txakoli Rosé made from Hondarabbi Beltza and Hondarabbi Zuri.
