The Wine Reference🍷 SupportGodello grape
Godello is a white grape known for pear, citrus, mineral. Its best-known homes are Valdeorras.
Origin and history
A native of north-west Spain, grown in Galicia and León for centuries; it nearly vanished before a revival began in Valdeorras in the 1970s.
Where it grows
Valdeorras, Bierzo, Ribeira Sacra and Monterrei in Spain, and Portugal's Douro (as Gouveio).
Structure
Medium to full body, fresh acidity and dry, with a creamy, textured mouthfeel, often from lees ageing or oak.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: pear, apple, citrus, white flowers and wet stone. With age: honey, hazelnut, toast and waxy notes.
Ageing
Most drink within 2–5 years; top Valdeorras and Bierzo can age 8–10 years.
Also known as
Gouveio (Portugal), Agudelo.
Good to know
Often called the 'white Burgundy of Spain'; by the 1970s it was nearly extinct, and the Recuperación project saved it from a handful of vines.
Wine regions for Godello
Godello wines to try
Real bottles from The Wine Library.
Rafael Palacios As Sortes
Benchmark Godello, textured and saline with pear, white flowers and a long granite finish.
Food: Turbot, lobster, roast chicken
Rafael Palacios Louro do Bolo
Valdeorras · Godello, Treixadura
Textured Godello with pear, fennel and citrus pith, finishing salty and fresh.
Food: Hake in green sauce, octopus
Similar white grapes
Explore all grapes in the interactive guide
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