Featured Wine of the Month
September 2011
2009 Rafael Palacios Louro Do Bolo Godello
Since summer technically stretches on for the majority of the month of September, I thought an additional white wine might be apropos. And this one, surprisingly enough, is from Spain. I say surprisingly, as this country is infinitely better known for its red varietals than its whites.
…But this white wine is a stunner. It is produced by Rafael Palacios, a former wine consultant, who began his new project in 2004 in the Valdeorras region by purchasing old vineyards from local growers. The 26 different parcels (21 hectares) of vineyards currently owned by Senor Palacios’ winery are located on the right bank of the Bibei River and consist of vines from 6 to 90 years old, all planted with the native white Godello grape.
The wine highlighted this month is the 2009 Louro Do Bolo Godello. It is produced from 92% Godello and 8% Treixadura, an aromatic white grape that is also indigenous to the Valdeorras region. The 2009 was aged for eight months in foudre, large casks, which accounts for a hint of oak. The color is an attractive pale yellow, and the nose is rife with notes of mineral and citrus.
This wine has been given exceedingly high marks by a number of critics… and for very good reasons. On the palate, it is a beautifully balanced, fresh and vibrant, tantalizing the senses with a vivid intensity and strong, lingering finish. And, priced at a mere $18.99, the 2009 Louro Do Bolo Godello is also an outstanding value. Stock up while you can.
Cheers!
The Artful Diner
September 2011
The
Artful Diner is an independent, freelance food writer. His latest review and an archive of past reviews for restaurants around the country and the world can be found on this site on the
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