Lado

Lado has deep roots in Galician wine history. By the 14th century, Galicia was already exporting Lado-based wines and vines across Europe. In the 16th and 17th centuries, blends of Treixadura, Torrontés, and Lado achieved widespread fame throughout the continent. The phylloxera crisis nearly wiped the variety out entirely, and it remained on the verge of extinction until recovery efforts began in the 1980s. Today, Lado is found primarily in the Arnoia region of Ribeiro, with just 2 hectares officially designated as of 2016.

• Galicia exported Lado wines and vines in the 14th century
• Treixadura, Torrontés, and Lado blends were celebrated across Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries
• Phylloxera brought the variety to near-extinction; revival began in the 1980s
• Now concentrated in the Val de Arnoia subzone of Ribeiro DO

A 2021 DNA analysis confirmed that Lado originated from a natural cross between Savagnin Blanc (also known as Traminer) and an unknown parent variety. Genetic research also points to a possible relationship with Treixadura, the flagship white of Ribeiro, and the Portuguese variety Viosinho. These genetic connections reflect the historically fluid viticultural exchange between northwestern Spain and northern Portugal, a relationship reinforced by the shared Atlantic maritime climate of both regions.

• Confirmed via 2021 DNA analysis as a Savagnin Blanc cross with an unknown second parent
• Possible genetic relationship with Treixadura and Portuguese variety Viosinho
• Genetic ties mirror the historical viticultural links between Galicia and northern Portugal

Ribeiro sits in a transitional zone between oceanic and Mediterranean climates, with strong Atlantic influence from its maritime proximity. The region receives approximately 1,300 mm of rainfall annually, averages 14.5°C, and enjoys around 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. High humidity is a defining characteristic, and soils are predominantly granite and slate. These conditions suit Lado's medium to late-ripening cycle and medium bud break. However, the variety presents real challenges in the vineyard: it is highly susceptible to botrytis and powdery mildew, and moderately susceptible to downy mildew. Yields are consistent, with small, compact bunches of large berries producing 12 to 13 tons per hectare.

• Atlantic maritime climate with approximately 1,300 mm annual rainfall and high humidity
• Granite and slate soils across elevations of 75 to 400 meters
• Medium to late ripening with consistent yields of 12 to 13 tons per hectare
• Highly susceptible to botrytis and powdery mildew

Lado produces fresh, crisp white wines with high acidity, citrus and green apple flavors, delicate floral notes, and a mineral edge. The variety is described as having a relatively neutral flavor profile, which makes it well suited to blending. In Ribeiro DO, Lado is classified as a preferential white variety and most commonly appears alongside Treixadura, Torrontés, Godello, and Albariño. Alcohol levels reach up to 13% ABV. The Atlantic proximity gives Lado-based wines a character that closely resembles Portuguese white wine styles. The current revival of the variety is driven in part by the international success of Albariño and broader interest in Galician whites.

• Produces crisp, aromatic whites with citrus, green apple, floral notes, and mineral character
• High acidity with alcohol up to 13% ABV
• Classified as a preferential white variety in Ribeiro DO
• Primarily a blending grape; partners well with Treixadura, Torrontés, Godello, and Albariño