Located in Bakio on the Biscay coast, Doniene Gorrondona is one of the most respected txakoli wineries in the Basque Country. Surrounded by steep Atlantic vineyards overlooking the Bay of Biscay, the winery reflects the strong relationship between Basque wine production, maritime climate, and local gastronomy.
Txakoli, the region’s traditional white wine, is known for its bright acidity, moderate alcohol content, and mineral character. At Doniene Gorrondona, vineyards are planted primarily with the indigenous Hondarrabi Zuri grape, alongside smaller quantities of Hondarrabi Beltza. The combination of ocean humidity, saline air, and clay-limestone soils creates wines with distinctive freshness and subtle salinity.
Viticulture and Winemaking
Unlike large industrial producers, Doniene Gorrondona focuses on small-scale production and careful vineyard management adapted to the challenging coastal environment. Vineyards are often trained high above the ground to improve airflow and protect grapes from humidity brought by Atlantic weather systems common in northern Basque Country.
The winery produces several styles of txakoli, including traditional young whites, sparkling wines, and limited experimental bottlings aged on lees or in oak. These modern approaches demonstrate how Basque winemakers are expanding the international reputation of txakoli beyond its historic role as a simple local wine.
Visiting the Winery
Doniene Gorrondona is located very close Bakio’s town center and less than 30 minutes from Bilbao, making it an accessible stop along the Basque coast. Winery visits generally include vineyard walks, explanations of txakoli production methods, and guided tastings paired with local food products. Visits can be conducted in Basque, Spanish, English and French, upon request.
Visitors exploring nearby San Juan de Gaztelugatxe often combine the experience with a stop at the winery and the Txakolingunea museum, particularly during harvest season in early autumn when vineyard activity is at its peak.
Info and reservations: https://donienegorrondona.com/en/
Updated on May 16, 2026
