Godello

Also: Gouveio

A less-common grape with great potential from the Iberian peninsula delivers mouth-watering flavors of briny grapefruit. The best examples offer smoky minerality. On the nose , Godello is enticing, delivering aromas reminiscent of a quality Chardonnay. You’ll detect notes of green apple, pear, and citrus, with a backdrop of white flowers and fresh herbs. Its profile is sometimes enriched by light hints of vanilla or toasted oak, particularly when oak-aged, much like a well-made White Burgundy. On the palate Godello carries a satisfying medium body and a silky, slightly creamy texture, not unlike an elegant Chardonnay. Its acidity ranges from medium to high, lending a refreshing counterpoint to its substantial body. While the aromas might hint at sweetness, the grape is most often vinified as a dry wine, displaying a balance and sophistication that fans of quality Chardonnay, especially White Burgundy, will appreciate. Bone-Dry Medium Body No Tannins Medium-High Acidity 13.5–15% ABV Pairing: Godello pairs well with light proteins, grilled fruit, nuts, citrus, or herbs such as coriander or fennel. Try grilled shrimp with a citrus-herb marinade, topped with toasted hazelnuts. These flavors highlight the wine’s fruity and slightly nutty notes. Or serve with roasted turkey, peach-and-fennel stuffing, and creamy polenta. The fruit and herb elements in this dish echo Godello’s rich, fruit-forward and balanced character. Madeline’s Godello Tasting Notes from Wine Folly Club ’s June 2023. Profile (Wine Folly): Bone-Dry, Medium Body, No Tannins, Medium-High Acidity, 13.5–15% ABV. Serving: no need to decant; cellar 3–5 years. Embark on a journey to explore the fascinating history of Godello. Godello’s Phoenix Moment Godello, a native white grape variety of Spain, has a rich history dating back centuries. Yet, by the mid-20th century, it faced near extinction. As the wine market began favoring more internationally recognized varieties, Godello was sidelined, its plantings dramatically reduced. The grape’s susceptibility to disease and difficulty in cultivation were additional challenges, leading many vine growers to favor more resilient, less demanding varieties. The revival of Godello is largely credited to visionary viticulturists such as Horacio Fernandez Presa. Recognizing Godello’s unique potential, they set out to rejuvenate this ancient grape, focusing their efforts in the Valdeorras region of Galicia, Spain. Thanks to their determination, Godello has experienced a significant resurgence, regaining its status as a distinguished varietal. Today, people prize Godello for its complex, mineral-driven wines that beautifully embody the essence of Spanish terroir.