Graphic via https://miconsejo.dovaldeorras.com
The Valdeorras DO—tucked into the mountains of the Serra do Courel and the Serra dos Ancares on the eastern edge of Galicia—was established in 1957. Since this time, it has been known primarily for crisp white wines produced from the relatively obscure (yet delicious) Godello grape variety.
In addition to varietal Godello and sparkling wines, the Valdeorras DO produces red wines based around Mencía (often supplemented with a splash of Tempranillo or Garnacha among other approved varieties). Other products of the DO include a dried-grape wine known as tostado as well as castes nobles wine made using grapes from a short list of preferred varieties, including Godello, Loureira, Treixadura, Dona Branca, Albarino, Torrontes, Mencía, Tempranillo, and Garnacha.
Other grapes (and blends) are approved for use in the more generic wines of the region, known as Valdeorras Blanco (for the whites) and Valdeorras Tinto (for the reds).
And now for the news: as of February 28 (2025), the EU has approved the production of rosé wine in the appellation, to be known as Valdeorras Rosado. According to the notice published in the EU Journal, rosado has traditionally been produced in the area, and renewed interest in lighter (and lower alcohol) wines has driven demand and appreciation of these local (pink) wines.
- Regulations concerning Valdeorras Rosado include the following guidelines:
- Minimum 10.5% abv
- Color: pink to cherry red in color, clear and bright
- Aromas: intense aromas of ripe red fruit
- Palate: red fruit flavors with a long finish and balance structure
- Allowed grape varieties include: Mencía, Tempranillo, Merenzao, Brancellao, Sousón, Caiño Tinto, Espadeiro, Ferrón, Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet), Gran Negro, and Mouratón
We look forward to trying these wines! Welcome to the world, Valdeorras Rosado!
References/for more information:
- Publication in the EU Journal re Valdeorras DO 2025
- Valdeorras DO Pliego di Condiciones update 2025
- Geography of Galicia via Wikipedia
Post authored by Jane A. Nickles…your blog administrator: jnickles@societyofwineeducators.org