La Vertical, Godello, Ribeira Sacra, 2018

Tasting Note:

The white 2018 La Vertical was produced with Godello. This is only the second vintage since the initial 2013, as they couldn't get any Godello grapes anymore; but in 2018, they rented a property that has around a half-hectare of Godello, so they could resume producing the wine again. This is from Quiroga-Bibei (the 2013 was from Chantada), and it fermented and matured in 225- and 500-liter oak barrels. It has a varietal nose with aromas of pollen and yellow fruit, quite focused. They harvested the grapes early to keep the good acidity in the zone. The oak is still there (they had some new barrels) but does not overwhelm. It has the typical bitterness of Godello and a salty twist. It's fresh and easy to drink. 1,500 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2020. – 92 Points, Luis Gutierrez.