Adega O Casal was founded in 2000 by five partners sharing the ideal of capturing the true varietal and optimum expression of the indigenous Godello and Mencía grapes. Starting with inherited family plots at high elevation near the village of Rubía, vineyard area has gradually expanded to the current six hectares. Viticulture is meticulous, seeking low yields. For a number of years, winemaking (though technically advanced) was conducted in a garage in Rubia. A new winery was expected to be ready for the 2008 harvest.
Godello is a white variety of wine grape found in northwestern Spain, in particular Galicia. The Gouveio found in northern Portugal is thought to be the same grape variety. Godello produces some of the best white wines in Spain and yields the best results in Valdeorras. Valdeorras is a beautiful region in Galicia with some 43 wineries and about 1,400 hectares under vine. Valdeorras is 100 miles inland — the terrain is mountainous, the roots of the vines burrow deep into the rock-hard ground, clinging to the steep slopes and leaching minerals from the slate-based soil. The stresses created by this harsh landscape give Godello from Valdeorras its distinctive character.
Spain has been getting a lot of press and attention as a provider of value white wine and Godello is one of my favorites at the moment. There are some that are a little thin — and would encourage selecting from those that don’t see any oak. The Casal Novo is a great example of quality Godello that can be found at $19 a bottle. It shows pronounced floral and fruit on the nose, with notes of orange blossom and wildflowers, stone fruits, melon and minerals. Peach, pear and citrus on the palette with a touch of honey. Great purity of fruit. Lots of minerality with zippy acidity and lengthy, bracing finish. 12.5% alcohol. Imported by Classical Wines. Recommended.
Related post:
A Coroa Godello 2008
personalwinebuyer.wordpress.com 