Domaine Arretxea - Irouléguy Red - Dolia 2025
In the heart of the Basque Country, on the steep slopes of Irouléguy, Domaine Arretxea has established itself as one of the major references of the Pyrenean vineyard. Founded in 1989 by Michel and Thérèse Riouspeyrous, it is now carried on by their sons Iban and Teo, who continue a demanding approach combining organic farming, biodynamics, and respect for the terroirs. Located on the slopes of Mount Jara, the vineyard benefits from a unique environment marked by the meeting of oceanic and mountainous influences. The geological diversity of the soils, where red sandstones, schists, and volcanic rocks coexist, is one of the great riches of this family estate. With Dolia, the Riouspeyrous family explores an original path by combining Basque winemaking traditions with an ancestral method of vinification in terracotta jars. Developed in collaboration with the Goicoechea pottery, located in Ossès, these jars specially designed for wine allow a different approach to fermentation and aging. This confidential cuvée thus illustrates the estate's desire to prioritize the expression of fruit and the personality of the terroir, in a style both authentic and contemporary.
Dolia Rouge 2025 is based on a blend of Tannat, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, the three traditional grape varieties of the great reds of Irouléguy. The grapes come from plots planted on red sandstone soils, whose structure contributes to the water balance of the vines and the personality of the wines. The Tannat brings depth, body, and tannic structure, while the Cabernets complete the whole with their freshness and aromatic finesse. The harvest is done manually, with careful selection of the grapes to preserve their integrity. The particularity of Dolia lies in a vinification entirely conducted in 400-liter terracotta jars, where maceration, fermentation, and aging take place over six to eight months. Unlike oak barrels, these containers do not impart any woody aromatic signature and promote a gradual evolution of the wine while preserving the brightness of the fruit. This method allows for a softer and more accessible expression of Tannat, without sacrificing the depth and identity of the Basque vineyard.
Dolia Rouge stands out for a particularly seductive aromatic expression, where ripe red fruits meet notes of sweet spices and aromatic herbs. The nose evokes cherry, raspberry, and fresh blackberry, accompanied by nuances of paprika, sweet pepper, and a touch of licorice. The palate offers a round and generous body, supported by supple tannins that contrast with the usually firmer structure of Tannat. A beautiful aromatic freshness runs through the wine, bringing dynamism to its gourmand and fruity character. The mid-palate develops flavors of red and black fruits, extended by a savory finish, slightly spicy and pleasantly mouthwatering. This accessible and expressive personality makes it an ideal companion for Basque charcuterie, veal axoa with Espelette pepper, grilled duck breast, or herb-roasted lamb. It will also accompany aged sheep's cheeses, whose richness will find a fine balance in the freshness of the wine. Intended to be enjoyed in its first years, Dolia favors fruit pleasure and texture finesse rather than long cellar aging.
Grape varieties: 70% Tannat, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
