Spain's Secret Wine Valley in the Basque Country Offers Stunning Ocean Views and Culinary Delights

The Unique World of Txakoli: A Basque Country Wine Experience

If you haven’t explored the Basque Country, you might not be familiar with txakoli—a distinctive white wine that is slightly carbonated, crisp, and dry. It pairs beautifully with light dishes like fish or pintxos, which are traditional Basque bar snacks. With a history dating back to the 9th century, txakoli was originally made in farmhouses for personal use or shared among neighbors. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that it began to gain popularity, making its way into local bars. Over the next century, it eventually earned recognition with three designations of origin in the 1980s.

The three official denominations of origin for txakoli are Getariako Txakolina, Bizkaiko Txakolina, and Arabako Txakolina. In the charming fishing village of Getaria, where most txakoli is produced, nearly 90% of the wine comes from the Hondarribi Zuri grape, with the rest coming from Hondarribi Beltza. The Getariako Txakolina denomination spans several towns, including Getaria, Zarautz, Zumaia, Hondarribia, and Aia, offering visitors 16 wineries to explore.

A significant portion of the txakoli grapes grown in Getariako Txakolina are cultivated near the coast, benefiting from a unique microclimate that helps the Hondarribi Zuri grapes thrive, giving the wine a distinct flavor. When tasting txakoli, you’ll notice it’s often poured from an elevated height, allowing the wine to "break" and aerate, enhancing its subtle fizziness. While almost always white, txakoli can also be a rosé, and very rarely, a light red. In a bar, it may be served in a wine glass or a flat-bottomed, wide glass—either is fine, but the pouring method is key.

Exploring Wineries in Getaria

Getaria is home to some of the best wineries for experiencing txakoli. One notable option is Txomin Etxaniz, a family-run winery that has been around since 1649. Known for its traditional txakoli, as well as a rosé and sparkling rosé, the winery also offers a unique take called Tx, which is a non-carbonated version of txakoli. The family also runs a cozy pintxo bar in the heart of Getaria, offering a great place to enjoy a drink and soak in the local atmosphere.

Another standout is Gaintza, a winery that has been producing txakoli since 1923 under the Lazkano family. Focused on sustainability, they use eco-friendly practices, including recycled materials and water-based ink for their labels. Visitors can enjoy three txakolis and three pintxos for under $30, and the family also operates a boutique hotel at the vineyard, making it a perfect base for a longer stay.

Ameztoi is another excellent choice, combining a winery with a hotel. Located slightly up the hill from Txomin Etxaniz, the views from the rooms and tasting terrace are spectacular. The Ameztoi family has been welcoming guests for five generations, creating a comfortable environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the region’s charm.

Txakoli Beyond Getaria

Outside of Getaria, there are several wineries within the Getariako Txakolina denomination worth visiting. In Zarautz, a coastal town known for its surf culture, you can pair wine tasting with surf lessons. At Talai Berri, a family-run winery with a rich history, you can take a guided tour and enjoy a tasting along with local delicacies like Idiazabal cheese, tuna, and sausages for just $20. They even offer a kids’ package at half the price.

Rezabal, a vineyard located above Zarautz, is a popular spot for weddings and private events. Its ocean views make it an ideal location to savor a glass of txakoli paired with pintxos. On the opposite side of Zarautz, Basa Lore produces a traditional white and rosé txakoli, as well as a special bottle known as the “grandfather of the winery,” described as having a floral aroma with a velvety finish.

In Hondarribia, just 30 minutes from Getaria, Hiruzta is a winery created by a father and his two sons. The name, a blend of Basque words meaning “three-person harvest,” reflects the family’s collaborative approach. The Rekalde family has built a beautiful space where locals and visitors gather to taste wines, tour the vineyards, and enjoy meals in an outdoor tavern. Located near San Sebastian Airport, it’s an ideal starting or ending point for a journey through the Basque Country’s food and wine scene.

Discover More Hidden Gems

Whether you're exploring Getaria or venturing beyond, the Basque Country offers a wealth of experiences for wine lovers. From family-run wineries to scenic vineyards, each location provides a unique glimpse into the region’s rich traditions. For more travel insights and hidden destinations, consider subscribing to a newsletter that shares expert tips and secrets about the world’s most captivating places.