Irouléguy Rosé, Domaine Ilarria

Rare deeply coloured rosé from France’s Basque Country

The tiny appellation of Irouléguy centres on the village of the same name in the Basque country near the Spanish border. The Espil family has owned Domaine Ilarria for centuries and the Basque language is still spoken in the family home. Sons Pattin and Gilen have now joined their parents at the domaine as the baton is gradually passed onto the next generation. One of only 7 independent winemakers here (and the longest-serving), the Espils preside over 30 hectares that are farmed organically following natural principles espoused by Japanese microbiologist Masonobu Fukuaka.

Grown on schist soils, Domaine Ilarria’s rosé goes through alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks to allow it to fill out without losing the wonderful berry fruit aromas and flavours from each varietal. Practising minimal intervention winemaking, they use little sulphur as possible to prevent oxidation. This is a gastronomic rosé, which works particularly well with dishes that have plenty olive oil and garlic!

Colour – Rosé
Producer – Domaine Illaria
Country – France
Region – South West
Vegan – No
ABV – 13%
Grapes – Tannat, Cabernet Franc
Vintage – 2025
Sustainability – Organic
Female Winemaker – No
Food Pairings – Anchovies, Ossau Iraty