Hondarrabi-Beltza

Basque Country, Spain

Hondarrabi Beltza is a red grape variety native to the Basque Country in Spain. It is primarily used to produce red and rosé Txakoli wines, which are less common than the traditional white Txakoli made from Hondarrabi Zuri. The grape is believed to be descended from Cabernet Franc, sharing some similar characteristics. Historically, Hondarrabi Beltza was more widely planted, but its cultivation has declined over time. Recent efforts by dedicated producers have aimed to revive this indigenous variety and preserve its unique heritage.

Small to medium-sized, dark-skinned berries forming compact clusters.

Hondarrabi Beltza thrives in the cool, Atlantic-influenced climate of the Basque Country. The grape is well-suited to the region's high rainfall and humidity, often trained on trellises to improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure. It is a late-ripening variety, requiring careful vineyard management to achieve optimal ripeness and maintain its characteristic acidity.