Valdeorras
Valdeorras, which means "Golden Valley," derived its name from ancient gold digging activities by the romans. The area is also known as the "Gateway to Galicia," located between Ribeira Sacra (west) and Bierzo (northeast). The Sil River flows to the region and originated in the region of Cordillera Cantabrica Mountain range to the north.
The best wines from Valdeorras
Valdeorras, which means "Golden Valley," derived its name from ancient gold digging activities by the romans. The area is also known as the "Gateway to Galicia," located between Ribeira Sacra (west) and Bierzo (northeast). The Sil River flows to the region and originated in the region of Cordillera Cantabrica Mountain range to the north.
Valdeorras has its vineyards situated at an altitude of 600 to 720 meters, primarily composed of sandy soils. Due to its inland position about 150 kilometers away from the coast, Valdeorras has a more continental climate, experiencing warm summers and cold winters, where the autums and springs can be characterizes as milder compared to other parts of Galicia. The influence of the nearby Atlantic Ocean is limited.
The region's microclimates are shaped by specific site conditions and soil types each resulting in their own distinct type of high-quality wines. The lower-lying lands near the Sil River and other local rivers feature ancient alluvial terrain, while higher slopes consist of granite to the west and southwest, and slate across the region. Limestone soils are common in the northern section, along with ferrous clays in elevated areas.
Other regions
Grapes in wines from Valdeorras
Valdeorras is renowned for revitalizing the Godello grape variety, which nearly disappeared due to phylloxera. Some producers create a high quality and rare barrel-fermented version of Godello wines. Aside with Godello, Valdeorras vineyards also contain Palomino, Doa Blanca (Sria), and Albarello. Valdeorras is well-suited for producing dry white wines due an altitude range from 300m (980ft) to 700m (2,300ft).
Most red wines in Valdeorras are based on the Menca grape, which has rich, fruity characteristics and can be found as a varietal or blended with Garnacha or Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines frequently taste like wines from their northeastern neighbour, Bierzo.
Classifications of Valdeorras wines
The DO of Valderras is primarily positioned along the slopes of the Sil River and its adjoining streams. Key municipalities within this area include A Rúa, Carballeda, El Barco de Valdeorras, Larouco, O Bolo, Petín, Rubiá, and Vilamartín.
The regional wine-regulating authority, the Consejo Regulador, permits the production of sparkling Valdeorras Espumoso made from 85 percent Godello grapes. Additionally, they allow the creation of Valdeorras Tostado, a sweet wine crafted from Godello or approved red-wine grape varieties. The only requirement for Valdeorras white, red, and rosé wines is a minimum alcohol content of 9%.
Wines made from recommended grapes reflect traditional Galician styles: fresh, clear white wines, and light, fruity reds. Besides the varietal Godello wines, Valdeorras Castas Nobles wines preferred grape varieties: Loureira, Treixadura, Dona Branca, Albariño, Torrontes, and Lado. If Palomino is included, the wine is classified as "Valdeorras Blanco."