«Potear» is a Basque word referring to the action of going from one bar to another taking some drinks. In the Basque Contry this «poteo» is a religion, so if you come to visit us choose the local options and ask for a good cold txakoli to my health.
WHAT IS THE TXAKOLI?
The txakoli is a generally white sparkling wine that formerly was produced artisanally in the Basque farm houses with the hondarribi-zuri grape. There are red and pink txakolis but they are very little spread: white represents more than 95% of the total production and is the one you will find in most of the bars and shops.
It is a very traditional wine, fresh, citric and with a little acidity. Even being Euskadi such a small land the txakoli has three different designations of origin: Getaria, Bizkaia and Araba.
My recommendation is that if you go in group to a bar you better ask for an entire bottle: you’ll make sure that you open the bottle and you don’t loose that slight bubble that is so characteristic.
If you just want to bring a souvenir bottle or gift, there are plenty of deli shops scattered throughout the city. Bodega Urbana in the center and Vinoteka Belostikale in Casco Viejo are my TOP options.
DO YOU WANT TO VISIT A TXAKOLÍ WINERY?
Do you want to know the process of making the txakolí, walk through the vineyards and taste the wines between barrels? We will love to recomend you the experience that fits you the best.
In our food tours we will also explain everything about this wine and we will try different options.