This month we're trying a new take on one of our favorite wines, Ameztoi Hijo de Rubentis 2015. We were checking out the wines at Formaggio South End when we spotted an odd looking bottle from Ameztoi – one of the best producers of our beloved Txakoli wines. We finally realized that the bottle was shaped and capped as a full sparkling wine.
We just happened to have a couple of bottles of the regular Rosé Txakoli on hand. We may just open both styles to experience the difference. (Links to some of our posts about other Basque wines are in related posts below.)
On closer examination of the label, we spotted the words "Méthod traditionnelle Champenoise." Most Txakoli wines are frizzante or a bit fizzy. This is enhanced by a high pour (we use a special Txakoli pourer ) to encourage the wine to foam. This one would call for our favorite Champagne stopper because it is a full-fledged sparkler.
Here's what we learned about this wine:
"Hijo de Rubentis means 'Son of Rubentis.' This sparkling rosé txakolina is sourced from the same vineyard as the Ameztoi Rubentis but the grapes were picked 10 days early to ensure a lower base alcohol. Secondary fermentation occurred in bottle.
Vinification Méthod traditionnelle. Aged on the lees for 14 months.
Tasting Notes Bright pink grapefruit color with fine and persistent bubbles. Floral aromas with notes of red fruit and raspberries on the nose. The wine is cheerful, fresh, elegant and persistent with a hint of red fruit.
Pairing Salmon, sushi, other seafood, delicate cream sauces and desserts.
Grapes 100% Hondarribi Beltza
Vine age 20 – 150+ years
Soil Sand and clay
Farming Lutte Raisonnée "
We purchased our bottle at Formaggio South End for ~$28.00
Trying wines from different places, made with different grapes, and produced by different methods adds spice to our monthly ritual. Since 2007 we have raised a glass of sparkling wine to greet each new month!
We look forward to raising a glass of this variation of an old favorite.
Related Posts:
Poured from On High, Txakoli Rose Is a Great Seaside or Seafood Wine
Basque Country Supper: Recreating Happy Memories
Check Out Our Wine List for Thanksgiving & Holiday Gatherings!
Our Sparkling Resolution is covered in this post: Join Us as We Toast …
A Few of Our Favorite Gifts for Wine Lovers
Here Are All the Wines We've Covered. Since this is a category, this post may appear at the top. Just scroll down for more.
What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List?
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Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2017 Penny & Ed Cherubino