Domaine Arretxea - Schistes 2023
Schistes Blanc 2023 from Domaine Arretxea embodies the most tense, vertical, and deeply mineral expression of the whites of Irouléguy. Originating from vines rooted in dark, crumbly schist soils, this vintage presents a pale gold color with silvery reflections, announcing a precise and luminous style. The nose opens with fine citrus notes, yellow lemon, and citron, combined with fresh pear, green apple, and a floral touch evoking acacia flower. In the background appear nuances of warm stone, chalk, and mountain herbs, immediately signaling the mineral nature of the terroir. The palate, straight and slender, unfolds a pure fruit supported by perfectly ripe acidity. The finish, long and salivating, reveals a clear salinity and a noble bitterness reminiscent of citrus zest.
Upon aeration, Schistes 2023 gains complexity and reveals deeper nuances of white peach, wild fennel, fresh almond, and fine spices. The aromatic profile remains tense, precise, supported by a mineral backbone of great clarity. Gentle vinification and aging in tanks and large containers allow the wine to retain its purity, liveliness, and airy dimension. The texture gradually becomes more enveloping while maintaining the saline thread that structures the whole. This vintage reflects the balance sought by Arretxea: fruit maturity, energetic tension, and faithful expression of the schist terroir. It is a vibrant white, with great stylistic coherence, asserting a refined and elegant personality.
At the table, Schistes Blanc 2023 stands out for its ability to enhance precise cuisines and very fresh products. It will beautifully accompany grilled fish, trout from Basque streams, citrus ceviche, shellfish, or just-seared scallops. Its mineral framework and freshness also make it an ideal companion for refined plant-based cuisine, around asparagus, roasted vegetables, fennel, or young sheep cheeses. Served around 10 to 12 °C, it fully expresses its brightness, aromatic richness, and tension. Already very appealing for its energy and precision, it will evolve harmoniously over a few years, developing notes of light honey, dried fruits, wax, and herbal infusions while maintaining its verticality. It is an identity white, pure and mineral, brilliantly illustrating the brightest facet of the domaine and the nobility of the schist terroirs of Irouléguy.
Grape varieties: Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng
