Spain’s Basque country is home to an expanse of wine growing regions that are little known within the UK, despite their popularity in other parts of Europe.

One such region is Rioja Alavesa, located in the south of the area, bordering the stunning Sierra de Cantabria mountain range to the north and the Autonomous Community of La Rioja to the south. With its Atlantic-Mediterranean microclimate, this region guarantees plentiful sunshine, sufficient rainfall and protection from the harsh weather conditions of the Bay of Biscay from the Sierra de Cantabria mountains. Such favourable conditions enable the region’s 200+ vineyards to make wines with unique characteristics that set them apart from the wider known Riojas produced in neighbouring Rioja Alta and Rioja Baja.

The Rioja Alavesa region is comprised of 12,000 hectares of small vineyard with vines planted in its unusual light ochre-coloured chalky soil in largely south-facing sloping locations. About 90% of the grapes grown in this area are Tempranillo.

Another region that’s been similarly lacking publicity in this area is Txakoli, situated on the sea-facing hillsides of Getaria and Bakio in the north of the Basque country. This region enjoys a humid Atlantic climate, with cooler summer temperatures resulting in a slow ripening process meaning that this wine is fresh and fruity and best young. The vines here are cultivated on land that is sheltered from strong coastal winds and benefits from maximum exposure to sunlight thanks to the geographic location. White Txakoli represents most of the region’s production, but Rosé and Red varieties are now becoming increasingly popular as well.

The Basque government are on a mission to raise awareness of their wines within the UK and are hosting a one-day event at Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 7, where attendees an unrivalled opportunity to meet with 40 of the region’s finest winemakers. To pre-register for the Seek the Sensational event – something that will earn you entry into a draw to win a VIP trip to the Basque country – please go to the Basque Wines website.

News item from Imbibe.com, 11-06-2010