The Distinctive Irouleguy Wines of Domaine Ilarria!

7/31/14 -

(Peio Espil (Photo Charles Neal))

A few months ago we placed our twice-yearly order for wines from Peio Espil at Domaine Ilarria. It was a small order, as these fascinating wines have remained largely unknown and appreciated by only a few of our most intrepid customers. We're happy to see in yesterday's New York Times that Mr. Asimov's excellent article on the wines of Irouleguy will considerably broaden American's knowledge of the region and in particular, the wines of Peio Espil, whose work we have long admired.

Mr. Espil took over the family estate in the late 80's after working at La Tour Banche in Sauternes and Domaine Cauhapé in Jurancon. He has always worked with organic methods, and a tasting with the sunny and expansive Mr. Espil will often turn to the life of the soil. When I advanced the idea that not plowing at all was best for soil health, if local conditions permit, Peio's face lit up into a broad smile and he said "I haven't plowed in 25 years!" We are in complete agreement that living soils are a prerequisite for making the most interesting wines of terroir and we urge you to try some of these great wines from Irouleguy! DL

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