The sparkling 2018 Izar-Leku is from the Getariako Txakolina appellation and was produced with 90% Hondarrabi Zuri and 10% Hondarrabi Beltza grapes. It was kept with the lees for one year (one-third in barrel) and with a second fermentation in bottle where the wine matured with the lees for 36 months (they don't want a longer time with the lees). It has 12.55% alcohol, a pH of 3.123 and 8.2 grams of acidity, which is quite high, making it vibrant and lively on the palate and with a bone-dry finish. It has a fascinating and complex nose that is very attractive, aromatic, expressive and open. 2018 was a cooler year with more rain in Zarautz, and the search is for purity, finesse and depth. It has abundant yeasty aromas and a saline note and is clean and delicate with very abundant bubbles. It feels a bit too young (keep it for a while) and with very high acidity. 16,000 bottles produced. It was disgorged in September 2022.
94+ points, Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate (Feb 2023)
Sourdough bread with dried lemons, pineapples and praline. Intense and flavorful on the palate with frothy but fine beads. Zesty and bright acidity give it personality and definition. Long, tangy finish full of yeasty crackers and lemon zest. Aged for three years on the lees. Drink or hold.
93 points, Zekun Shuai, James Suckling (Sep 2023)