Variety: Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc

Domaine Ilarria, whose name derives from Iri (site) larria (land) in the local Euskara (an ancient language spoken exclusively in this region), takes respect for terroir to the next level. Isolated from the rest of the world by the Pyrenees mountains, Peio inherited the land from his parents who inherited it from their vigneron parents, and has winemaking in his blood. Before taking over the family estate in 1988, winemaker Peio Espil did stints in Bordeaux and Jurancon, but could not stay away from the Irouleguy region for long. Upon his return, he painstakingly terraced the limestone rich hills in order to better make use of the steep terrain.

Call it a Bordeaux inspired blend if you want, though this bottle is distinctly Basque. The Tannat in this wine adds a certain ruggedness that only an equally rugged dish would be able to match. Think sausages or leg of lamb with grilled peppers complete with a smothering of a salsa verde.