Late afternoon sun, a few friends around a table, a charcuterie board… and of course, a good glass in hand! In the Basque Country, aperitif is a true moment of sharing, taste, and generosity. But then, what are the real aperitifs of the region? Here's a quick overview of the typical drinks to discover (or rediscover).
1. Irouléguy: the Basque wine par excellence
If there's one wine that embodies the Basque Country, it's Irouléguy. Perfect for an aperitif.
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Irouléguy Rosé: fresh, fruity, with a lovely color. Ideal for a summer aperitif with Bayonne ham or sheep's cheese.
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The dry white: mineral and expressive, to pair with pâté or smoked fish.
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The light red: perfect to accompany chorizo or Basque sausage.
2. Patxaran: sloe liqueur with a strong character
Patxaran (pronounced patcharan) is a liqueur typical of the Spanish Basque Country, made from wild sloes macerated in alcohol with spices.
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Served very cold or with an ice cube
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Perfect as a digestif… but some also have it as an aperitif!
Sweet, slightly aniseed taste: a classic to introduce to your guests.
3. Basque craft beer? Of course!
The Basque Country offers beers with original flavors: blonde, amber, IPA, or Espelette pepper beer!
We recommend a very cold Basque beer with our dry sausages or sheep's cheese.
And what to snack on with all that?
A Basque aperitif without anything to eat? Impossible! Here are some essentials to put on the table:
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Bayonne Ham in thin slices
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Chorizo or Basque sausage sliced
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Ossau-Iraty cheese
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Black cherry jam, country bread, sweet pepper
Want to create a 100% Basque aperitif?
At Etxe Peio, we have everything you need for an aperitif: charcuterie, cheeses, wines, craft beers, and even Patxaran! Come and see us in our store or on our website.
