What is Monastrell?

Question

What is Monastrell?

TasteAtlas · Accepted Answer

Monastrell, also known as Mourvèdre, is a red wine grape variety widely grown in several wine regions, particularly in Spain and France. Believed to have originated in Spain, it is most commonly known as Monastrell there, while in France it is called Mourvèdre, notably in the Provence and Rhône Valley regions.

It is also referred to as Mataro in parts of Australia and California. In Spain, Monastrell is primarily cultivated in the southeastern regions, such as Jumilla, Yecla, and Alicante. In France, it is found in the southern Rhône Valley and Provence and is often used in blends for wines like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Bandol.

Additionally, it is grown in other parts of the world, including Australia and the United States (particularly California). Read more

Monastrell wines are typically dark in color with high tannin and alcohol levels, exhibiting rich, robust flavors with notes of blackberries, plums, black pepper, and earthy undertones. They can be meaty or gamey and sometimes show hints of herbs and spices.

This grape variety is used to produce a variety of wine styles, including single-varietal wines and blends. It is often blended with Grenache (Garnacha) and Syrah in both Spain and France to create balanced and complex wines, and it is also used to make rosé wines, particularly in Provence.

Monastrell wines pair well with hearty and robust dishes, such as grilled meats, stews, and game. The high tannin content makes it a good match for rich and fatty foods, including lamb and beef, and it also pairs well with spicy dishes and strong cheeses.

Due to their structure and tannin levels, Monastrell wines often have good aging potential, especially those from top-quality vineyards and producers, developing more complex flavors and softer tannins with a few years of aging. Monastrell is a versatile and robust grape variety that produces rich and flavorful wines, reflecting the characteristics of the regions where it is grown.