Monastrell is a powerful, black-skinned grape variety extensively grown across the hot, arid landscapes of south-eastern Spain, particularly the Murcia region. It is the third most widely planted variety in the country and unquestionably bears a significant Spanish signature.
The grape is known for its thick skin which is an effective barrier against the harsh heat of its native region. It creates robust wines brimming with high tannins, robust structure and alcohol levels that can exceed 15 percent, offering intense fruit flavours and aromas.
In the glass, Monastrell wines often emanate a deep, inky hue, characterized by a strikingly robust, full-bodied profile. The flavour profile shows an impressive range, typically showcasing lush, dark fruit elements such as blackberry, cherry, and plum, coupled with exciting nuances of spice, tobacco, and sometimes even game. Although intensely flavourful, Monastrell wines can be challenging due to their muscular tannins, often requiring a few years of ageing to reach its best potential.
In the realm of winemaking, Monastrell wines are often either made as single varietal wines or blended with other varieties to balance its potent attributes. You'll frequently find it mingling with Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo, especially in blends from the aforementioned Murcia, as well as from Valencia and Jumilla.
Outside of Spain, Monastrell is also grown in various other wine-producing regions around the world, albeit in relatively lesser quantities. In France, it's known as Mourvèdre, where it's a key player in the famous blends of Rhône and Provence. Monastrell vines have also made it across the Atlantic to the vineyards of California, where it contributes to Rhône-style blends.
In summary, Monastrell is a grape that thrives in harsh, sun-drenched conditions to produce wines that are bold, intense, and unmistakably Spanish in their character. Its wines are a testament to the unique terroir they hail from, offering wine lovers a sip of sun-soaked Spain with each glass.
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