The Wine Reference🍷 SupportMonastrell grape
Monastrell is a red grape known for blackberry, plum, pepper. Its best-known homes are Jumilla.
Origin and history
Spanish in origin, probably from the Valencia region; it spread to France as Mourvèdre, possibly named after Murviedro (modern Sagunto).
Where it grows
Jumilla, Yecla, Alicante and Bullas in south-east Spain; Bandol and the southern Rhône in France; Barossa and McLaren Vale in Australia.
Structure
Full body, high tannin, moderate acidity and often high alcohol; it needs plenty of sun and heat to ripen.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: blackberry, plum, black pepper and violets. With age: game, leather, earth, smoked meat and dried herbs.
Ageing
Everyday Jumilla drinks within 2–5 years; Bandol and top Monastrell can age 10–20 years.
Also known as
Mourvèdre (France), Mataró (Australia, Portugal, Catalonia).
Good to know
Bandol in Provence must contain at least 50% Mourvèdre, making it the grape's most famous French home; it is the M in GSM blends.
Wine regions for Monastrell
Monastrell wines to try
Real bottles from The Wine Library.
Bodegas Juan Gil Juan Gil Monastrell
Ripe, plush Monastrell with blackberry, plum and sweet spice from old dry-farmed vines.
Food: Barbecue ribs, chorizo, burgers
Celler del Roure Les Alcusses
Valencia · Moixent · Monastrell, Garnacha Tintorera, Syrah / Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon
Mediterranean blend with dark berries, garrigue herbs and a smooth, savoury finish.
Food: Paella with rabbit, grilled meats, stews
Bodegas Castaño Hécula
Ripe old-vine Monastrell, black fruit, earth and toasty oak at a friendly price.
Food: Roast lamb, burgers, stews
Bodegas Atalaya Laya
Almansa · Garnacha Tintorera, Monastrell
Dark-fruited and generous, with blackberry, plum and a warm, spicy, easy-going finish.
Food: Burgers, barbecue ribs, manchego
Familia Torres Grans Muralles
Conca de Barberà · Garnacha / Grenache, Carignan, Monastrell
Torres flagship from old Poblet vineyards with native varieties: dark fruit, herbs, minerals and great depth.
Food: Roast suckling lamb, game pie, truffled dishes
Similar red grapes
Explore all grapes in the interactive guide
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