Monastrell

Monastrell, also known as Mourvèdre in France and Mataro in parts of the New World, is a thick-skinned red wine grape, mostly cultivated in hot and dry climates. It’s best known for the wines made in Spain, particularly in Jumilla and Jerez. Monastrell is thought to have originated in Spain. Besides used in cepage wines, it gives varietal wines and blends depth, color, and structure.

The color of Monastrell wines are from deep ruby to inky purple, often opaque. The wines are full-bodied with a dense, rich mouthfeel. the acidity is moderate to high, depending on the ripeness of the grapes.

The grapes have firm and rustic tannins, giving it excellent aging potential.

Taste

Monastrell is known for its intense, concentrated flavors and complexity. The fruit elements are typically dark berries like blackberry, black plum, and blueberry. When aged the wines from the monastrell grape show dried fruit notes such as fig and prune.

Monastrell wines also show a lot of spicy and earthy notes:black pepper, cocoa, and clove, often combined with earthy notes of leather, game, or even a meat.

Herbal notes may show up: Garrigue (wild Mediterranean herbs like thyme and rosemary) or dried herbs.