Wine consumers today, including young consumers, want something new and exciting, not their parents’ Cabernet. This year, parents can take the lead and introduce their kids to a unique wine: Godello. Think of Godello as a cousin of the French white Burgundy.

You’ll forget other white wines once you try this white grape variety. Godello is a lighter, fresher, and more approachable wine that pairs with almost any food. And it’s damn delicious!

The Godello wine region

Godello (go-DAY-o) is a white wine grape grown in the Galicia region of northwestern Spain. Galicia is better known as the home of Albarino, a grape from the coastal areas. In the eastern part of the region, Godello dominates, especially in Valdeorras.

Other northwestern Spanish regions, like Bierzo and the Dão and Douro regions of northern Portugal, also cultivate Godello. In Portugal, the grape is known as Gouveio or Verdelho. Most winemakers bottle Godello as a single-varietal wine. A single-varietal wine has only one grape; no other grapes are allowed.

White wine is on the rise. 

Godello’s attributes align with the recent trend of wine sales, which is moving from red to white wines. In 2020, the Wine Market Council stated that white wine made up 52% of wine sales in the United States. Wine consumers today prefer lighter and fresher wines with lower alcohol. Godello offers a refreshing and drinkable alternative to typical white wines with its crisp acidity, floral aromas, and minerality.

Godello is made from an unusual local grape variety. 

A growing interest in unusual and local grape varieties also contributes to the trend towards white wine. Today’s wine drinkers prefer distinct and authentic wines that are true to the region of their origin. 

Although cultivated for centuries, Godello has been rare. It truly delivers a genuine taste of Galicia’s wine culture. You won’t find anything else like it anywhere. 

Godello’s history

The name of the grape comes from the word “godell,” meaning “royal” or “noble,” in reference to the grape’s reputation. Godello was almost extinct despite its long history, but pioneering winemakers brought it back.

Godello’s history goes back to Roman times, and the Valdeorras region is Galicia’s second-oldest Denominación de Origen. The Romans, who drank a lot of wine, appreciated that the fertile soils were perfect for grape vines. 

The Valdeorras name comes from the native people, the “Gigurri.” The term “gigurro” changed over time from “giorres” to “eurres” and then “iorres.” Val de Iorres (the valley of Iorres) became known as Valdeorras. According to Wines of Galicia, Godello makes up 1,113 hectares of vines, 1,042 growers, and 43 wineries producing 3.6 million liters. Only 13% of wines produced are exported. 

Godello’s qualities and characteristics

Wines made from the Godello grape display a unique blend of freshness, complexity, and aging potential. The grape is disease-resistant due to its thick skin and loose clusters. Winemakers here use sustainable farming and low-intervention techniques. Characteristics include:

• Color: Golden-yellow
• Aromatic Intensity: High
• Aromas: pear, apple, peach, vegetal notes
• Acidity: Medium-high
• Alcohol: 11.5-13.5%
• Body: Medium+

Additional factors:

• The wine is easy on the palate because of its rich mouthfeel and bright acidity. 
• A subtle hint of slate and granite reflects the region’s terroir. 
• Godello wines age beautifully, developing a creamy texture and complex flavors.
• Compared to premium Chardonnay, Sancerre, or Viognier, Godello wines offer exceptional value for their quality.

An all-weather and all-cuisine white wine

Godello’s freshness and fruity flavors are ideal for spring and summer gatherings. You can enjoy this wine by the pool or serve it with various foods, from seafood and grilled meats to salads and roasted vegetables.

Also, Godello’s richness and complexity are perfect for fall and winter. The wine can balance the heaviness of hearty soups and stews, and it’s an excellent match for game meats such as venison or wild boar. Or you can sip a glass in front of a crackling fire. 

Due to its versatility, Godello pairs well with any seafood, vegetarian, and vegan dishes, Asian cuisine, and even tapas.

Godello — damn delicious!

Godello, the hidden gem from Valdeorras, Galicia, Spain, will stand up against any other white wine, including white Burgundy, Chablis, and Sancerre. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer sipper or a rich and complex winter wine, Godello fits the bill. Try it; you’ll be a convert by the end of the first glass.