The Godello grape, a white variety indigenous to northwestern Spain, has a rich history and growing popularity in the wine world. Its cultivation is believed to date back to Roman times, although its name appears in historical documents from the 13th and 16th centuries. After nearly disappearing due to phylloxera in the 19th century, Godello has seen a significant resurgence in recent decades.
Godello is grown primarily in Galicia and Castile and León, with a notable presence in the Ribeira Sacra and El Bierzo. In the Ribeira Sacra, the steep terraced vineyards along the Sil River are emblematic, producing wines with a marked minerality and balanced acidity. El Bierzo, known for its clay soils and continental climate, also produces high-quality Godello, often with mineral notes and freshness.
Other growing regions include Valdeorras, Monterrei and Ribeiro in Galicia. Valdeorras is particularly important as it is known as the birthplace of Godello and is the only denomination of origin required to produce single-varietal wines from this grape.
Godello wines stand out for their straw-yellow colour with greenish reflections, fruity and floral aromas, and a notable minerality. On the palate, they are balanced, with good acidity and an elegant body. Its versatility allows the production of both fresh and young wines as well as more complex and barrel-aged ones.
Lagar do Vento is a winery in the Ribeira Sacra that has excelled in the production of Godello wines, with a focus on sustainability and the expression of terroir.
José Antonio García, for his part, is a renowned winegrower in El Bierzo, known for his dedication to artisanal viticulture and respect for native varieties, including Godello. His wines reflect the authenticity and quality of this grape in its maximum expression.
