GURRUTXAGA 2009 TXAKOLI ROSE

  

Not your ordinary rose, but that’s what you would expect from Basque country. Made from Hondaribbi Beltza (a native grape), this one still has plenty of zing even though it is a 2009.  Melons and berries in the nose along with whiff of a salty minerality, there’s plenty of backbone to this pink.  It is light and crisp on the palate but is insistent as well with just a touch of spritz to keep everything lifted.   This is one of those wines that is not contemplated as a cocktail style.  It isn’t made to replace grandma’s White Zinfandel.  This one hits a whole new level with food and, in fact, like the quirky pinks from Lopez de Heredia, seems to ‘blow up’  alongside little, salty tapa-like things.