2010 Gurrutxaga Bizkaiko Txakolina (Previously $20)

SKU #1067533 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Greenish straw. Vibrant, racy aromas of lime pith, green apple, quince and agave. Chewy and plump in the mouth, with flavors of fresh peach, pear skin and fennel. Finishes dry, dusty and chalky, with firm acids and refreshing bitterness. This is not what most Americans expect of a Txakoli but it's a classic rendition of the wines from this subregion, whose wines tend to be fatter and richer. (10/ 2011)

89 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2010 Txakoli Gurrutxaga displays a light fizz from carbon dioxide. It has greater density than most of its peers along with an enticing nose of citrus, mineral, and jasmine. Crisp, vibrant, and lengthy, it will provide enjoyment over the next 12-18 months. (6/ 2011)

K&L Notes

Gurrutxaga is located in the Txakoli sub-zone of Bizkaia, a bit closer to Bilbao than to San Sebastián. Their vineyards, consisting of Hondarribi Zuri, Mune Mahatsa (Gros Manseng), Txori Mahatsa (Courbu), and old vine Hondarribi Beltza (the rare red variety used for their rosé) are situated on beautiful, green sloping hills that afford a magnificent close-up view of the ocean. Gurrutxaga is on fire of late, and their 2010 is another terrific effort, balanced, racy, and just waiting to enjoy with grilled white fleshed fish or any number of pintxos (tapas) such as cured anchovies, dry cured cheese, chorizo, tuna, or any of your other favorites choices.