White wines take their name quite simply from the grapes from which they are made—white grapes—and are known for their great diversity across all of Spain. We’re going to take a trip around the country to discover the particular nature of each grape, making a stop at each of the most important varieties in Spanish gastronomy and, moreover, in our culture, since wine is part of our tradition, our life’s expression, and is much more than just a glass to accompany a dish. Grapes and wine are part of our identity.

First stop: ALBARIÑO

The Albariño grape gives rise to one of the most symbolic and representative varieties of Spanish whites, including at international level. There are several theories about this renowned grape—considered native to Galicia—and one of them is that it was brought to Galicia by the Monks of Cluny in the 12th century. The Albariño grape, small in size and pale yellow in colour, with touches of green, is known for its late vegetative cycle. This grape variety develops in optimal conditions in Galicia, where temperatures are mild and the Atlantic climate helps the vine to grow with the right levels of humidity, resulting in wines that are distinguished by their acidity and freshness, and stand out for being wines that are surprising, delicate and highly recognisable.

Second stop: CHARDONNAY

A round grape that is grouped in small, compact clusters, they are straw-coloured and have little inner pigmentation. The Chardonnay grape, which comes from the Burgundy region, is known for its great resistance and adaptability to different types of soil. Proof of this is its great expansion throughout the world: in the United Kingdom, Italy, Croatia, the United States, New Zealand, South Africa, Cyprus and Chile. In Spain, the Chardonnay grape can be found in Catalonia, La Mancha, Valencia, Navarre, Andalusia and Aragon. This variety is the second most widespread in our country and, thanks to its a neutral character, it allows the aromas of the soil, minerals and the characteristics of the climate to stand out. The Chardonnay grape—associated with champagne—produces wines marked by balance which stand out for the personality of their nuances.

Third stop: VERDEJO

The Verdejo grape—greenish-yellow in colour—grows in small, upright bunches. This grape is very common in Valladolid and its Denomination of origin, Segovia and Ávila. Outside Castilla y León it can be found in the Canary Islands, Extremadura and Castilla La Mancha. The Verdejo grape adapts to all wastelands and is highly resistant to drought. The wines made from Verdejo grapes are greenish-yellow, or almost amber in colour, producing fresh, light-bodied wines with an intense aroma. These stand out for their acidity, which gives them a subtle and enjoyable touch of bitterness.

Fourth stop: GODELLO

The Godello grape is a greenish-yellow colour and is grouped in small, dense clusters. Its vines are very sensitive to humidity and cold, and require care all year round for their optimum development. The Godello grape, native to Spain, originates from the slopes of the river Sil and is recognised as a grape of great quality. The third most planted variety in Spain, it has Designations of Origin in the province of León, as well as in Galicia. It stands out for its aromatic potential, displaying a complex and diverse profile. The wines made with Godello grapes are unctuous, fine, delicate and full-bodied, and display balanced acidity and intense aromas that are both fruity (reminiscent of apple) and floral, with mineral and herbaceous nuances and a yellow-greenish hue.

Fifth stop: AIRÉN

Our last stop is the most widely planted grape in the world and also the most widespread in Spain. We are referring to the Airén grape—with large clusters and yellow in colour—found in the central areas of the peninsula. Its robust vines have a high production rate with late budding that is very resistant even to drought, high temperatures and poor soils. The Airén grape produces wines characterised by a pale yellow hue, high alcohol content, balanced structure, body and subtle aromas. It is a fairly neutral variety and is often used in blended wines.