If you’re not drinking wines from Galicia you’re missing out. Defined by a cool, rainy climate influenced by the Atlantic ocean, this region in north western Spain is perfectly situated to produce some explosively fresh white wines. The grape that is the most well known, and largely responsible for the emerging popularity of the region, is Albariño. Light, incredibly crisp and vibrant, and extremely easy to pair with anything seafood, this varietal is a hit that can typically be picked up for around $20 or under, making it a great wine to just have on hand. But as awesome as Albariño is, today’s focus is in a slightly different direction.
The grape that we’re talking about today is Godello (pronounced go-day-oh). Just as fresh, crisp, and easy to pair as Albariño, Godello typically also brings to the table a bit more body, an intense, ripping acidity, and some interesting fruit tones. Matching incredible freshness with a solid weight, a well made Godello is an incredibly versatile wine to match with just about anything other than heavy meat dishes and desserts. They can be a bit of a challenge to find, as Albariño has largely taken the region’s center stage, but when one does come your way, there should be no question whether or not to add it to your cart. The following two wines are great examples of what you can expect.
Wine #1: Vina Godeval 2010 Valdeorras Godello
.
The aroma of this wine is restrained but well composed with notes of crushed stone, Meyer lemon pith, and citrus flowers unfolding throughout.
Ripe but also extremely crisp and fresh on the palate, it’s loaded with minerals, lemon tones, and a subtle floral quality. Like sunshine on beach rocks, this wine is explosive with its acidity and crushed stone notes. Fresh, vibrant, and exciting, this is a great wine for the price.
91 points. Worth Buying.
Wine #2: Terra do Lobo 2009 Monterrei Godello
.
White floral tones mix with peach and lemon zest on the nose with a distinct mineral tone of crushed beach stone also showing through in the background.
Ripe but balanced and fresh this wine opens with almost a roundness that immediately gives way to a very fresh, crisp acidity. Tones of peach, tangerine, and sliced green apples mix with mineral notes to create a very nicely balanced wine with great approachability and matching potential for food.
Worth Buying. 91 points.
Please Leave a Comment:
The Grapvevine: What’s your experience with Spanish white wines?
