Monastrell Wines (90)

Winemakers around the world are trying to cultivate thick-skinned grapes, but only ideal conditions reveal the true fruity-spicy character of Monastrell. Conditions like those that Monastrell wines have experienced at VINELLO. Treat yourself to the untamed temperament of Spain and discover full-bodied red wines and lively rosé wines from the primitive Monastrell grape variety.

Whether Monastrell or Mouvèdre - the main thing is enjoyment

The indigenous grape variety Monastrell in Spain is at home in the southeastern regions from Alicante to Albacete to Valencia. On a total of over 60,000 hectares of deep and calcareous soils, where the sun shines brightly and generates high temperatures, the full potential of Monastrell red wine unfolds. For centuries, this somewhat disease-prone grape variety has been cultivated, which, when fully ripe, is powerful and somewhat bitter. This is also the origin of the name Monastrell, derived from the Arabic word - monasterio, meaning monastery. The French and also well-known name Mouvèdre comes from the Spanish port city of Morvedre - today Sagunto - from where the wines and grapes made their way to France. In contrast to the dark red and full-bodied red wines from Spain, floral and fresh rosé wines made from Mouvèdre are also produced on the banks of the Rhône. In both cases, Monastrell is primarily found as a blending partner, enriching the cuvée with well-integrated tannins and structure. However, winemakers in Australia, the United States, and South Africa are also producing Monastrell to create the so-called GSM blend with Syrah and Grenache. One grape variety, many possibilities - the aromatic Monastrell wine is maturing worldwide for your enjoyment.

Monastrell - Spanish character, primitive taste

As part of a cuvée, Monastrell is highly sought after. As one of the most widely cultivated grape varieties in Spain and the rarely vinified varietal wines made from Mouvèdre, the full-bodied and dark red wine offers a wealth of strong, spicy aromas. Leading the bouquet are black berries, such as blackberry, plum, and cherry. Refined with nuances of pepper and cassis as well as, after longer aging, game and leather, it creates a rounded and meaty wine with pronounced tannins. Monastrell red wines are often rich in alcohol and offer excellent aging potential. After years in the bottle, the wine develops a complex body with wild aromas. Optimal characteristics result in an elegant whole when combined with Syrah, Grenache, and Tempranillo.

The growing areas of Monastrell wine

Hot summers and mild winters - ideal for the native Monastrell grape variety to ripen late. Adequate water supply and yield reduction are essential, allowing the grapes to reach their full potential. The Mediterranean climate from Alicante in the southeast to Barcelona in the northeast provides optimal conditions. The soil mix, containing clay, lime, loess, and sand, yields deep and loose soil. Monastrell enjoys its time on the south-facing vineyards inland until it is fully ripe in autumn. Monastrell is the leading variety in the growing areas of Alicante, Jumilla, Almansa, and Yecla, and also finds ample space in Catalonia.

In France, Mouvèdre from Bandol yields the best results, contributing a rich fruit component to the majority of the blend. However, Monastrell has also found a firm place in GSM cuvées as Mataró, in the sun-drenched regions of South Australia. The primitive character, balanced with harmonious tannins and strong structure, provides winemakers with an ideal blending wine for elegant and powerful red wines that are increasingly being rediscovered by the wine scene.

Our VINELLO recommendation

MO Monastrell Alicante DO - Sierra Salinas

The Mo Monastrell Alicante exudes fruity aromas of strawberry and black cherry with 85% Monastrell, completed by Cabernet Sauvignon and Garnacha. The over 20-year-old vines, which seek the proximity to the sun at altitudes of up to 650 meters, come directly from the D.O. Alicante. This results in spicy and juicy notes, underlined by a 4-month aging in French oak. Serve this best-buy Monastrell red wine with Spanish tapas or allow it some additional aging - your palate will thank you.

Fuerza Jumilla DO - Ego Bodegas

A delightful cherry red with violet reflections already hints at the fruity aromas, which are immediately confirmed by the nose. Combined with smoky nuances and excellently integrated tannins, the Fuerza from Jumilla DO offers a refined cuvée of Monastrell and Cabernet Sauvignon. Planted and cultivated according to the locally typical goblet training and carefully harvested and vinified, the intense and alcohol-rich Fuerza from Ego Bodegas ages for 12 months in barriques. This creates a fruit-driven and elegantly structured Spanish red wine that pairs beautifully with grilled meat, smoked fish, and blue cheese.

Interesting facts about Monastrell

What is Monastrell?

Monastrell, also known as Mouvèdre or Mataró, is an indigenous grape variety in Spain from which red and rosé wines are made. As a component in many cuvées, Monastrell is highly valued and provides the assembly with tannin-rich and fruity elements. In Spain, Monastrell is one of the most important grape varieties, but it is also widely cultivated in France, especially in Bandol, Australia, and America.

What is the ideal drinking temperature for Monastrell wine?

The optimal drinking temperature for Monastrell wines is between 15 and 18°C.

How long can Monastrell be stored?

Although already ready to drink at a young age, the best Monastrell wines have good aging potential and benefit from storage of up to 8 years. The storage place should be cool, dark, and temperature-stable. The bottle should be stored on its side.

How long is an open bottle of Monastrell good for?

An open bottle of Monastrell red wine can last up to 7 days depending on the fill level, provided it is sealed and stored in the refrigerator. However, the shelf life decreases depending on the fill level - the less there is, the shorter the shelf life. Thus, a half-full bottle lasts only up to 4 days.

What does Monastrell red wine pair well with?

The robust Monastrell wines pair well with grilled or braised meat dishes as well as with aged hard cheese. The rich character of the fruity-spicy Monastrell wine also complements hearty dishes with game and lamb or even chili.

Buy Monastrell wines cheaply online

Long underestimated and now making a comeback - the grape variety Monastrell offers you unbridled Spanish winemaker passion in its deep red body. Experience the best Monastrell wines from Spain at VINELLO. We have compiled a select range of affordable and enjoyable wines from the powerful Monastrell grape variety that you can conveniently and securely purchase online. Order your favorites and take advantage of our climate-neutral and insured shipping. Buy Monastrell wines according to your preferences and choose from numerous payment options. And for any questions or requests, our sommelier advisory service is fully at your disposal. Order your affordable Monastrell wines online now and treat yourself to juicy-dry red wines and fresh rosé wines made from the noble Monastrell.