Artomaña ‘Xarmant’ Arabako Txakolina, Basque Country, Spain 2024

80% Hondarrabi Zuri, 10% Petit Corbu, 5% Gros Manseng, 5% Petit Manseng

Xarmant is made from sustainably-farmed, estate vineyards of indigenous grapes from the Arabako Txakolina DO in the verdant Basque Country, close to the Bay of Biscay on Spain’s rugged Atlantic coast. This proximity to the ocean creates an ideal microclimate, defined by the brisk, northerly waters, and the humid north-northwest wind blowing off them, which cools the vines even on the hottest summer afternoons.

Dramatic geological features belie the friendly, humble nature of both the people and the wines here in Álava. It’s no coincidence that the family named their wine Xarmant (“charming”), as we’ve yet to find a soul that can resist the charms of their lovingly and carefully made, unmistakably Basque wines.