Chardonnay vs Godello
Chardonnay
A versatile white grape whose style changes a great deal with climate and winemaking.
- Citrus
- Orchard fruit
- Lean to creamy
Recognize it
Chardonnay is relatively neutral in aroma. Cooler sites tend toward citrus and higher acidity; warmer sites toward riper fruit. Oak, lees contact, and malolactic conversion can add texture and additional aromas.
Godello
A broad, textured Galician white of green apple and stone, especially associated with Valdeorras.
- Green apple
- Medium to high acidity
- Stony
Recognize it
Medium to high acidity in a medium to full body with real texture. Green apple and a stony note lead, with less overt citrus aroma than Albariño and more weight.
How they compare
- SimilarMedium body and apple fruit.
- DifferenceChardonnay spans a wider range of oak and malolactic styles; Godello is more often built around fresh apple, citrus, and texture.