Ilarria 2021 Irouleguy Rouge

In the French Basque hills, enveloped by Spain, Peio Espil tends his family’s estate with impressive care. Peio, after careers in both Sauternes and Jurancon, returned to Irouleguy to work sustainably, and received complete organic certification in 2008. Here he strictly adheres to a Fukuoka-inspired way of organic farming, with biodiversity in the vineyards and no plowing, with the overall health of the soil being his number one concern. The 2021 Rouge is  approximately 55% Tannat, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 30% Cabernet Franc and it's another sensational vintage for this unique wine. Deep black/red color with bright rim; elegant aromas of red currant, cassis and blackberry with rose petal and earth, really lovely. A bit leaner than the 2020, the wine is intense and well structured with firm acidity beneath sapid berry fruits that coat the palate. There is a lovely balance between intensity  of fruit and refreshing acidity and while there are firm tannins the wine remains elegant, supple and immensely enjoyable to drink now, with a beautiful combination of soil, fruit and bright acidity in the finish. Serve a bit cool with grilled lamb, hangar steak or a tagine of vegetables, enjoy until 2035+