2011 Bodegas Rafael Palacios Godello Valdeorras Louro do Bolo - Lot of 6

Rafael Palacios is the brother of Spain’s leading winemaker and BBR stalwart Alvaro Palacios. It should come as no surprise that the family genius, enthusiasm and attention to detail is also evidenced in Rafael’s wines. Whereas the Palacios family made its name in Rioja, and Alvaro has subsequently achieved world-wide recognition for his vineyards in the appellation of Priorat and (latterly) Bierzo, Rafael has headed to the green north-west Atlantic influenced vines of the DO of Valdeoras, which is located windward of Rueda, not too far to the north of the Portugal border and the River Miño.

The jewel here is the white variety Godello, which is now achieving recognition similar to that latterly afforded to Albarino and Verdejo. Sandy soils with granite substratum allied to historical terraced vineyards add up to hard work, small yields and a concomitant high level of quality.