Irouleguy Wine

Irouleguy ('Irulegi' in the local Basque language) is the most southerly of France's wine appellations. Centered around the small village of the same name, Irouleguy is located in the far south-western corner of France in the northern Basque Country. Its western and southern boundaries are formed by France's border with Spain.

This part of France is heavily influenced by the area's Basque heritage; the language spoken here is different from standard French and the culture is markedly different. The AOC Irouleguy appellation was granted in 1970, after a revival in the local winemaking industry following decades of decline. The current level of vine plantings is about one-fifth of the figure that prevailed at the beginning of the 20th century.

The steep lower slopes of the Pyrenees provide the setting for many local vineyards. The terroirs are diverse – which is to be expected given the topographical diversity – but the high sunshine levels are one constant factor that winemakers can rely on. The climate is heavily moderated by the presence of the Atlantic Ocean 25 miles (40km) away to the west, while the Pyrenean peaks provide shelter from northerly winds and cast a rain shadow which conveniently reduces rainfall level at harvest time. The mountain peaks reach heights of 3300 ft (1000m), just 10 miles (16km) away from the main viticultural areas of Irouleguy.

Irouleguy's soil composition includes clay (in lower-lying areas near the local rivers), limestone, schist and gravels – the last of which is excellent for maturing the Cabernet grapes which constitute an increasing proportion of plantings here. In fact, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc must make up at least 50% of the blend for any red or rose wine claiming the Irouleguy appellation. Tannat is the only other red grape permitted under the appellation laws; it is predominantly used to make weighty rose wines and lighter, fruitier red wines than those it produces in Madiran.

White wines made under the Irouleguy title must be produced from Courbu Blanc and Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng. They are generally fragrant and light-bodied.