Godello
TL; DR
Rare but stunning grape from north-western Spain.
So, what is it?--red
Godello is a theoretical mash-up of Riesling, Albarino and Chardonnay. It's medium bodied, refreshing and laden with citrus. The best examples can take a touch of oak, but generally it goes without.
Where does it come from?--aromatic
The region of Galicia in north-western Spain is the undisputed home of this noble grape.
Who's famous for it?--racy
Spain - Galicia, Valdeorras
Portugal - Vinho Verde
What does it taste like?--aromatic
Godello is a flexible and curious beast, and can show off a multitude of flavours. It also responds relatively well to oak treatment, so you're likely to see some oaked and some not (a bit like Chardonnay). Aromatically it's floral - think orange blossom - with quince and peach. The texture is round, slightly creamy and with a hint of almond and watercress. There's plenty of lemon curd, pear and pear brulee as well. Very intriguing!
Main styles it's known for?--cellar
Light and zesty (like Albarino) or richer and fuller (like oaked Chardonnay)
What foods should you be pairing it with?--plum
As befits a wine that comes from regions close the coastline, this is a great wine with all sorts of seafood - crab, raw scallops, baked snapper. Also seafood paella is a winner.
Fun fact--earth
Whilst it's not a common grape yet, only 10 years ago it was even less so! Plantings and thus drinking of it are on the rise. This is why we think it's the next big thing in Spain - so keep an eye out for it!