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Wine is as good as life to a man, if it be drunk moderately: what life is then to a man that is without wine? for it was made to make men glad.
—Ecclesiasticus, ch. 38, v. 1
(Our sample bottle was purchased by us at standard retail.)
In the Getariako DO (Denominacione de Origen) of Txakolina, the dominant grape is called "Hondarrabi Zuri" (in other DOs, it is called "Ondarrabi Zuri"). The Ulacia Getariako Txakolina is made up of 85% Hondarrabi Zuri and 15% Hondarrabi Beltza, which latter is actually a red-wine grape. (Note that Hondarrabi Zuri, often referred to as "indigenous" to the Basque country, is simply the French grape Courbu Blanc.) Like many a Txakolina, the Ulacia is an alcohol lightweight, clocking in at just 11½%.
Ulacia Getariako Txakolina is pretty commonly available, with many national retailers carrying it. At retail, it runs for from $15 up to $22 or so, averaging $18 (Txakolinas have gotten trendy lately).
The Ulacia is a fairly standard white Txakolina: mildly pétillant, moderate acidity with moderate minerality, and a distinct citrusy nose and flavor. It is easy to drink and is acid enough to be crisp and refreshing.
If there is a negative, it is just that for the same or less money, one can get significantly more distinctive and assertive Txakolinas. Mind, if you want an unassertive little wine that does have its pleasures, this will do fine. But even there, $18 or thereabouts can do you better. In sum, nothing at all wrong, some things right, but not a lot of bang for the buck.
On CellarTracker.
On Wine Searcher's Tasting Notes page.
Of some major wine-review sites:
(2011 vintage), 88 points:
Although there is a slight reduction on the nose of the 2011 Getariako Txacolina (a blend of two indigenous varieties, Ondarrabi Zuri and Ondarrabi Beltza), a few swirls allow the succinct earthy, smoky aromas to lift from the glass. There is a lovely spritz in the mouth: crisp acidity that follows through with impressive weight towards the finish, then cooking apple and a little quince on the aftertaste. This would be perfect as a slightly chilled aperitif.
(2010), 88 points:
The 2010 Getariako Txakolina displays a bit of fizz from captured CO2 along with a hint of sea salt, mineral, white peach, and melon. Vibrant on the palate, it cries out for oysters on the half-shell.
(2008 vintage), 89 points
(2007 vintage), 88 points
(2006 vintage), 89 points
(2007 vintage), 88 points
(2013 vintage), 90 points:
Lively, precise scents of fresh citrus and orchard fruits, along with suggestions of quinine and chalky minerals. Taut and nervy, with bitter lime pith and honeysuckle flavors putting on weight with air. Finishes dry and nervy, with lingering floral character.
(2011 vintage), 90 points:
Bright straw. Lime, fresh herbs and white flowers on the fragrant nose. Dry and light-bodied, offering tangy citrus fruit flavors and a touch of tarragon. Finishes tangy and long, with lingering spiciness and a note of bitter quinine.
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This page was last modified on Monday, 9 December 2019, at 4:17 pm Pacific Time.