Viniou Reviews
Ultreia Godello 2018 from Bierzo is a remarkable Spanish white wine that beautifully captures the character of the Godello grape. 2018 was an excellent vintage, offering expressive and well-balanced wines. Godello, a variety native to northwestern Spain, is esteemed for its aromatic complexity and minerality. The grapes used in this cuvée are typically sourced from old vineyards planted on slate and clay soils, cultivated with meticulous care. Vinification often involves gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel or old barrels, allowing the purity and freshness of the grape to shine through, sometimes with subtle lees ageing for added texture and depth.
The Bierzo region, located in Castile and León, sits at the crossroads of Galicia and Castilla, benefiting from a unique microclimate. The Atlantic influence tempers summers, ensuring a good diurnal temperature range, while the mountainous landscape shields vineyards from excessive rainfall. Soils are characteristically mineral-rich, with a mosaic of slate, quartz, and clay, which imparts great tension and salinity to the wines. Historically, Bierzo has been a land of transition, with ancient vineyards and a focus on autochthonous varieties rejuvenated in recent decades by passionate vignerons.
A wine like Ultreia Godello lends itself to a variety of food pairings. Its fresh acidity and mineral backbone make it ideal for seafood, such as grilled octopus or prawns in garlic oil, as well as delicate white fish. Traditional Galician dishes like empanada de atún or pulpo a la gallega are sublime matches. Its texture also makes it suitable for roasted chicken with herbs, or even dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus risotto or artichoke salad.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Godello between 10 and 12°C. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes in the glass will reveal its floral, citrus, and slightly smoky nuances. Enjoy within the next two to five years to capture the vibrant expressiveness of the vintage.
