O Barreiro 'Gaba do Xil' Branco Valdeorras 2023 (Galicia, Spain)

Godello is a rare varietal that almost went extinct in the 1970s, but was thankfully revived by Horacio Fernández Presa, now affectionately remembered as the “Father of Godello.” Winemakers Pablo Eguzkiza and Telmo Rodríguez started working with this grape and other indigenous varietals in Valdeorras (“Valley of Gold”) in 2002, and the results have been spectacular. The Gaba do Xil, named for the hillsides of the Sil River that overlook the vines, is an expressive and fresh wine with excellent minerality and a lovely sea-breezy salinity. Citrusy acidity, green apple, and pear accompany a silky texture and a long, lingering finish. Food Ideas: Feta stuffed peppers, sushi, parmesan crusted tilapia, pan con tomate with anchovies, fish & chips, citrus-herb marinated grilled shrimp, Milanesa Napolitana ABV: 13%