Alvaredos Hobbs Godello Ribeira Sacra 2020 750ml

From the vertiginous slopes of Ribeira Sacra comes this exceptional collaboration between Alvaredos and renowned viticulturist Paul Hobbs, showcasing Godello grown in one of Spain's most dramatic wine regions. The 2020 vintage captures the essence of these heroic vineyards, where vines cling to near-vertical terraces above the Sil River, producing fruit of extraordinary concentration and mineral complexity.

The wine presents a bright golden-yellow color with hints of green, immediately suggesting both richness and vitality. On the nose, this Godello offers a complex bouquet that balances fruit and mineral elements beautifully. Ripe stone fruits—white peach, apricot, and nectarine—mingle with citrus notes of Meyer lemon and grapefruit zest. These fruit aromas are complemented by white flowers, wet stones, and a subtle hint of smoke that speaks to the region's distinctive slate soils. As the wine opens, notes of honey, almonds, and fresh herbs add additional layers.

The palate reveals why this partnership has garnered such acclaim. The texture is rich and almost creamy, yet maintained by a backbone of crystalline acidity that provides lift and energy. Flavors of ripe pear, citrus, and tropical fruits flood the mouth, while mineral undertones of graphite and river stones provide grounding and complexity. The influence of Hobbs' winemaking philosophy is evident in the wine's precision and balance—there's concentration without weight, richness without heaviness. Mid-palate, notes of white tea, fennel, and a touch of salinity emerge, adding intrigue.

What makes this Godello exceptional is the marriage of Ribeira Sacra's extreme terroir with world-class winemaking expertise. The combination of old vines, steep slopes, and meticulous attention to detail produces a wine of remarkable depth and authenticity. The finish is long and complex, with fruit and mineral elements intertwining in perfect harmony. This is a white wine that challenges preconceptions, offering both immediate appeal and the structure to evolve beautifully over several years. Pair with grilled seafood, roasted chicken, or rich fish preparations to experience Godello at its finest.