Apart from the famous Rioja region, which partially extends into the Basque Country, the northwest of Spain still has some interesting regions to offer, which are now only gradually being rediscovered and which, due to their range of grape varieties, their geological and rather cool climatic conditions, produce equally interesting styles of wine, sometimes beyond the mainstream.
Deep in the west lies the region of Ribeiro, which is gaining increasing fame especially for its fresh white wines made from the Treixadura, Godello and Alvarinho varieties. However, Ribeiro has not yet been able to profit from the popularity of its neighbour Rias Baixas.
The most exciting red wines are produced from the Mencia variety, which are distantly reminiscent of first-class Cabernets Francs. To the north lies the equally small Ribeira Sacra area, not dissimilar to Ribeiro in terms of grape variety range and resulting wine styles. Next to Ribeiro and in close proximity to the Bierzo region, which already belongs to Castilla y León, is the small Valdeorras region. As with its neighbours, the soil consists mainly of granite and slate, and in combination with the cool climate at about 700 meters above sea level actually presents ideal conditions for white wines.
Nevertheless, the emphasis in sales is on red wines, especially from the Mencia variety. This overlooks the fact that the white wines from Godello can be excellent.
All in all, a voyage of discovery through these regions, which could well play a prominent role in the future, is worthwhile.
