The Valdeorras region in Galicia in north-western Spain is largely unknown, but deserves to be considered more closely by discerning wine lovers. Historically, the wine-growing region has a long history of wine-growing in the country, as the Romans were already cultivating wine here in the river-crossed region near the Portuguese border. The efforts of the winegrowers to produce good to outstanding quality wines went unnoticed for a long time, and it was not until 1957 that the region, which covers just 1,300 hectares, was awarded DO status. Valdeorras is the warmest of the Galician wine-growing regions, but the combination of cool Atlantic influences and the warm Mediterranean climate is still cool enough to provide an ideal home for two grape varieties that are currently very popular as Spanish insider tips - the white grape variety Godello and the red Mencia. And the fact that these wines are particularly sought after by wine nerds is also thanks to Bodegas La Tapada. The small bodega, which covers just 9 hectares and is run by siblings Senen and Carmen Guitian, relies exclusively on indigenous, traditional grape varieties, especially Godello, which thrives here on a terroir of limestone, granite, slate and clay. Jose Hidalgo, one of Spain's best oenologists, is responsible for the vinification. And with the conscientious harvest and strict selection, which is then just enough for around 100,000 bottles, a variant of Godello can even be aged in barriques. The "Wine Advocate" even certifies that the wines from Bodegas La Tapada have certain potential for maturing and ageing. These zesty, fresh and delicately mineral wines are currently so highly regarded among Spain fans that they are almost considered to be cult wines.
