A few years ago, I had the opportunity to spend a week in Spain’s region of Murcia where food, wines and history abound. During visits to Jumilla, Yecla and Bullas, I was fascinated with the people I met, their stories, the landscape and of course, the wines of Monastrell. I’m looking forward to a return visit as soon as I can!
In the meantime, the writers at #WorldWineTravel, a prolific group who travel the world via writing and social media shares, are taking a closer look at the the many aspects of this region. I can’t wait to publish our most recent discoveries on August 27 and 28. I guarantee you’ll want to pour a glass of wine from the region as you’re packing your bags for a trip to Spain after reading! For a preview of their articles, see below!
Photo Credit: spanish-traveller.com
What is Monastrell?
Many interchange the words Mourvèdre with Monastrell and consider it the same grape, but please don’t do that when you are in Spain. Monastrell expresses the soil and growing conditions of the region and therefore has subtle nuances different from Mourvèdre, grown extensively in the Rhone region of France and in other areas. Monastrell is the fourth most planted red wine variety in Spain and in the region of Murcia, this dark colored grape comprises over 50% of plantings.
During my travels throughout Murcia and specifically to the Designated Origins (D.O.) of Yecla, Jumilla, and Bullas, I noted how the topography of the mountain ranges, plains, and desert like lowlands as well as the unique terroir and climate provide optimal growing conditions for Monastrell. The vines grown in stony, sandy clay and limestone are impervious to drought and botrytis bunch rot. They’re well suited to the dry, semi-arid conditions of this area in Spain. Monastrell grows in small, compact clusters of thick-skinned berries and is late to bud and ripen.
In general, wines of Monastrell offer an intense color in the glass and aromas of blackberries and other dark fruit. Full in body, rich fruit, strong tannins, structure and high alcohol dominate the palate. Thanks to differing winemaking techniques, the wines express the climate and terroir of the area as well as the creativity of each winemaker – whether it’s a blend of Monastrell with Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Merlot, Syrah, and Petit Verdot or an array of styles including Joven, Crianza or Reserve, rosé, naturally sweet, fortified, or sparkling wines.
Join the Conversation on August 28
Have you visited the regions of Murcia or Valencia, enjoyed the wines or have terrific wine and food pairings to share? We’d love to have you join the fun on Saturday, August 28 at 11am Eastern/8am Pacific and use the hashtag #WorldWineTravel! See you soon!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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