Bodegas Itsas Mendi is a pioneering estate located in the historic town of Gernika, right in the heart of the Spanish Basque Country. The winery takes its name from its spectacular geographical setting, translating directly to where the sea ('Itsas') meets the mountains ('Mendi'). The estate manages 40 hectares of vines spread across 18 distinct plots within the protected Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This dramatic coastal environment, heavily influenced by the cool breezes of the Cantabrian Sea, creates an incredibly unique microclimate. The vines benefit from regular rainfall and cooling ocean winds, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly while preserving a brilliant, zesty natural acidity that is the absolute hallmark of the region.
The estate is heavily committed to preserving this pristine natural landscape, operating from a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly cellar. All the vineyards carry strict integrated production certifications, with specific sites fully committed to organic and biodynamic farming practices. By expertly managing the diverse soils and microclimates across their fragmented plots, the winemaking team captures the pure, energetic character of the native Hondarrabi Zuri grape. The cellar relies on highly precise, temperature-controlled fermentation to protect the delicate aromatics of the fruit, resulting in crisp, refreshing Spanish white wine that perfectly translates the salty, mineral-driven essence of the Basque coastline directly into the glass.
Founded in 1990 by environmental agriculturalist Garikoitz Rios, the project began with a singular vision to recover and elevate the historic viticultural traditions of the area. Today, the collection offers everyday drinkers a magnificent exploration of premium Txakoli, moving far beyond the simple, slightly sparkling tavern wines of the past. Instead, the range delivers sophisticated, still, and beautifully textured expressions packed with vibrant green apple, bright citrus, and crisp white floral notes, underpinned by a signature saline edge. It is an incredibly revitalising and highly versatile portfolio that serves as the ultimate food-matching choice for fresh seafood, oysters, and traditional Basque pintxos.