2016 Ameztoi, Rubentis Rose, Getariako Txakolina D.O. Spain.
One of the world’s great pink wines, the Ameztoi Rubentis is made from classic basque grapes 50% Hondarribi Beltza and 50% Hondarribi Zuri, with vines that are between 20 and 150 years old, grown near the Atlantic not far from San Sebastian on the Bay of Biscay. Grown on hardened clay and sand, this Rose Txakolina is cold fermented and aged in stainless steel with some residual carbonic acidity that makes this crisp wine slightly spritzy, but as it opens the old vine Hondarribi (red) shines through and this glorious pink gains depth and flavor, while staying firmly dry and vigorous. Ignacio Ameztoi, a seventh generation of winemakers, makes clear and persistent wines, red, white, rose and a tiny amount of Champagne style Brut Rose, all of which is great and fresh Txakolina, awesome summer wines and lovely with sea foods. The 2016 Ameztoi Rubentis Rose, co-fermented with both red and white grapes handled together, shows bright steely mineralite and delicate strawberry, sour cherry, distilled raspberry and rose water along with watermelon, citrus, spice and vibrant spring herbs, it’s lighter frame feels taught and focused, gives nothing away in flavor, just looking at this bottle makes your mouth water in anticipation and it’s a hedonistic refresher, wonderful for any occasion, especially a beach day or an afternoon outside with friends. Anytime you can find Ameztoi Txakolina you should grab them, in particular the Rose, I only wish they made it more available in magnums!
($22 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
