The Brana Vineyard
Domaine Brana is located in the heart of the Irouléguy appellation, between the villages of Ispoure and Bussunaritz. This unique terroir, among the smallest appellations in France, benefits from an ideal environment for the expression of local grape varieties. Each plot is carefully cultivated to reveal the full richness and typicity of the Basque vineyard.
Local grape varieties for unique wines
In 1984, Jean Brana created the first independent domain on the AOP Irouléguy and was at the origin of the renaissance of white wine in Irouléguy. The domaine promotes the local grape varieties that give all their specificity to Brana wines:
- Cabernet Franc, a grape variety originating from the Pays Basque , produces elegant, fragrant red wines with notes of cherry, violet and cocoa. It provides a beautiful structure and fine, supple tannins.
- Tannat, an emblematic grape variety of the South-West, produces powerful and full-bodied red wines. The aromas of black fruits and spices are characteristic of this grape variety.
- Cabernet Sauvignon, a world-famous grape variety, is renowned for its full-bodied, complex red wines, exhibiting aromas of cassis, blackberry, tobacco and mint, with firm tannins and exceptional aging potential.
- Petit Courbu, a white grape variety originating from the South West of France, produces fresh and aromatic wines, revealing notes of exotic fruits, lemon and fresh herbs, adding freshness and elegance to white wines.
- Gros Manseng, a white grape variety from the South West of France, produces sweet and dry white wines, characterized by their aromas of yellow fruits and exotic fruits, bringing richness and complexity to the blends.
- Petit Manseng, a quality white grape variety, is used to produce dry or sweet white wines. It offers flavors of candied fruit, apricot and honey, with a beautiful concentration and refreshing acidity.
- Two forgotten native grape varieties have been replanted by Maison Brana: Arrouya and its cousin Erremaxaoua. They produce wines full of lace, revealing aromas of mountain berries and pepper.
Four terroirs, one distinctive identity
The domaine is cultivated mainly on the mountainside on plots arranged in narrow terraces covering 16 hectares. Four different terroirs characterize the soils of the vineyard: red Triassic sandstone, claystone, beige limestone and clay-limestone.
These terraces are a hallmark of the Irouléguy vineyard, shaped by a age-old winemaking tradition.
This specific terroir of Irouléguy, with its varied soils and unique growing conditions, contributes to the complexity and expression of the wines produced at Domaine Brana. It gives the wines a distinctive identity, combining character and elegance.
Biodiversity encouraged and respected
Respect for the environment is at the heart of the company's concerns. The Domaine promotes the biodiversity of the vineyard by preserving natural habitats and encouraging the presence of diverse plant and animal species. This includes the conservation of native botanicals, the creation of birdhouses and dormitories, bat houses and the establishment of wildlife-friendly spaces. The Domaine has 110 nesting boxes that accommodate different species of birds that act as valuable auxiliaries in controlling pests within the vineyard. The presence of 35 species of birds testifies to the richness of biodiversity on the domaine.
The Domaine is certified HVE (High Environmental Value) level 4; this certification recognizes the efforts of the domaine in terms of environmental preservation, biodiversity, water management and the rational use of inputs. In addition, in conversion since 2019, the estate will be certified ORGANIC in 2024.
Finally, to guarantee optimum quality of the grapes, the presence and intervention of humans is at the heart of the vine in order to support its development throughout the year, to adapt the work over the seasons within the framework of HVE and Organic Agriculture cultivation.
The cellar in the heart of the vineyard
In 1991, the construction of the winemaking cellar in the Ispoure vineyard marked an important milestone for the House. Offering an exceptional view, this site houses the entire production of Brana wines.. The spectacular cellar is built at the heart of the domain, seeming to protect it with its shade, and inspired by the Navarrese towers.
To design this winery, the family called upon internationally renowned architects, Patrick Dillon and Jean de Gastines. During a visit to their work later, Patrick Dillon declared: "I have built many winery in the world, but this place has a real soul."
Come and taste our Irouléguy wines!
Whether you are a wine lover or simply curious to learn more about Maison Brana, come and discover our spirits and Irouléguy wines during a tasting in our Brana boutique, in Ossès, where you can explore the captivating flavors and aromas of our productions.
Come visit us or make an appointment for a personalized tasting!
Learn more about Maison Brana
Maison Brana, founded in 1897, is located in the heart of the Pays Basque. It is distinguished by the production of eaux-de-vie, liqueurs, gins, whiskeys and excellent wines. Tradition and innovation blend harmoniously in Brana products, faithful to their values for over a century.
Discover the Maison
For over a century, four generations have succeeded one another in the wine and spirits business at Maison Brana. Discover the history of these Basque wine distillers.
Discover the story
The liqueurs and spirits of Maison Brana are made with passion and know-how in the distillery located in Ossès. All the delicacy and finesse of the fruits are found in these precious bottles of spirits produced in the Basque Country: eaux-de-vie, liqueurs, gins and whiskeys.
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