In the heart of the Basque Country, the Irouléguy appellation, known for its robust and expressive wines, copes with unfavorable climatic conditions with resilience. During its annual general meeting in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, the Syndicat des vins d…
In the heart of the Basque Country, the Irouléguy appellation, known for its robust and expressive wines, copes with unfavorable climatic conditions with resilience. During its annual general meeting in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, the Irouléguy wine union, which brings together the cooperative cellar and around twenty independent producers, shared encouraging news on the state and future of the appellation.
With a distribution of 60 producers over some 270 hectares of vines, more than 60% of which are cultivated organically, Irouléguy stands out for its eco-responsible approach.
Downy Mildew Losses
However, in recent years, frost, hail and mildew attacks have led to average losses of 30% of production during certain seasons, jeopardizing the financial and psychological stability of many farms.
Faced with these challenges, the Union does not remain inactive. Indeed, it has put in place a series of initiatives to support its members and improve the quality of production. A collaboration with an association made it possible to launch training and discussion days on various wine-related themes, thus strengthening the technical skills of winegrowers, both new and established.
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The partnership with the CUMA of Irouléguy also allowed the creation of an analysis laboratory, optimizing the responsiveness of producers during the crucial vinification and bottling periods. This innovation is a further step towards controlling the impacts of climate and terroir on the vine.
New practices
In terms of communication, the Union adopts a two-pronged strategy. Internally, it strengthens the cohesion and dynamism of its members. Externally, he works to improve the reputation of the appellation among key influencers such as restaurateurs and wine merchants.
Participation in local events and an active digital presence, with a website, social networks and a YouTube channel, also increase the visibility of the appellation.
Strategic discussions are also underway to integrate new agro-environmental practices into the appellation’s specifications and to revisit the appellation area, in order to regulate the extension of wine-growing lands.
