Herri Mina

Herri Mina is an original and unusual estate. It is located in the far southwest of France, bordering the Basque Country region of Spain. In the past, the Irouléguy area boasted a great tradition in viticulture, which was later lost over the centuries, despite the vocation of the area. Its rediscovery and enhancement is due to the famous French winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet, who in the past also worked for Château Pétrus and other prestigious domaine. The call of the land of his birth was stronger, however, and Claude Berrouet decided to return to Irouléguy, where in 1992 he founded Domaine Herri Milla, a small estate that produces wines with a typically territorial character.
The decision to devote all attention to this small, almost unknown Appellation was an act of courage and passion. Herri Milla, in fact, in the Basque language means homesickness, of the land of one's birth, and it is this sentiment that underlies the ambitious project. The property covers an area of about two hectares and is planted with the white grape varieties historically found in these lands: Courbu, Gros Manseng and Petit Manseng. The vineyards are located at an altitude of about 400 meters above sea level, on terraces that climb the steep slopes of the Ispoure hillsides and enjoy sunny south-facing exposures. Agronomic management follows the principles of biodynamic agriculture, without the use of chemical substances
The Irouléguy appellation was only created in 1970 and can count on a total of about a hundred hectares under vine. The area enjoys a typical Atlantic climate, very cool and windy, but mitigated by the presence of sea breezes. Under these particular conditions, the grapes ripen slowly, favoring the accumulation of intense aromas and remarkable expressive freshness. The soils are rather rocky, composed mainly of sandstone, poor in organic matter. The vines produce naturally with low yields, and the best bunches are vinified with extreme care and attention with the aim of enhancing the varietal complement of the grapes.