The Treixadura grape is an incredibly special white wine grape variety prominently grown in the Ribeiro and Rías Baixas wine regions of Galicia in Spain. Treixadura, pronounced "tray-sha-dora" is also cultivated across the border in Portugal, where it's known as Trajadura and often blended in Vinho Verde wines. While it can produce single varietal wines, it is typically used as a blending grape in tandem with other local varieties like Albariño, Godello and Loureira.
The grapes are highly desired for their beautifully pale gold colour and their complex aromatic profile. When allowed to fully ripen, Treixadura grapes develop a delectably deep aroma, encompassing floral scents such as orange blossom, apple, pear and peach alongside a citrus accent. In terms of flavour, they create a luscious blend of ripe stone fruit notes with an amusing touch of bitter herbs on the finish providing a seductive contrast.
Despite being a challenging grape to grow due to its naturally low yield and susceptibility to fungal diseases, the vines often survive in the harsh Atlantic weather of Galicia, aided by the region's characteristic pergola trellising system, which helps maximise sun exposure and ensures good air circulation to prevent rot.
Treixadura wines have a characteristic high acidity and light body, often accompanied by an elegant minerality that reflects the granite soils where the vineyards are located. They are outstanding to consume young, but can also be aged in bottle for a few years, when they will develop lovely honeyed qualities and greater complexity. Treixadura based wines are excellent when paired with a variety of seafood and shellfish, making it a popular choice in British coastal gastronomy.
In recent times, this ancient variety has garnered much acclaim and recognition from renowned wine critics for its remarkable unique characteristics. As a result, its demand and esteem are continually growing both in the UK and amongst worldwide wine aficionados.
Buy Treixadura wine below.
