Mourvèdre is a red wine grape variety that is most known for its roots in southern France, Australia and Spain, the same grape with different names, locally known as Monastrell. It is known for its dark color, high tannins, and full body. Mourvèdre wines often have flavors of blackberry, plum, and spice.
There are many famous wine regions where Mourvèdre is grown:
Southern Rhône, France: Mourvèdre is one of the 13 permitted grape varieties in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a famous wine region in the Southern Rhône. It is also used in other Rhône Valley wines, such as those from Côtes du Rhône and Bandol.
Spain: Mourvèdre is known as Monastrell in Spain and is widely planted in the country. It is used to make a variety of wines, including those from the regions of Jumilla, Alicante, and Valencia, similar wines to french, using similar techniques.
Australia: Mourvèdre is known as Mataro in Australia and is grown in various regions, including the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. It is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Shiraz and Grenache, to imitate the famous GSM blends from France.
California: Mourvèdre is also grown in California, particularly in the Central Coast and Paso Robles regions. It is often used in blends with other Mediterranean grape varieties.
Mourvèdre in WA-INE
Mourvèdre in Washington is recently new, compared to other grapes, but it’s a grape variety that adapts to a new environment and produces exceptional wines.
Early Beginnings:
The first plantings of Mourvèdre in Washington can be traced back to the 1980s. Red Willow Vineyard in the Yakima Valley was one of the early pioneers, recognizing the potential of this versatile grape. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s and 2000s that Mourvèdre began to gain significant traction.
A Growing Reputation:
Several factors contributed to the rise of Mourvèdre in Washington:
Climate and Terroir: The warm, dry climate of regions like Red Mountain and Horse Heaven Hills provides ideal conditions for Mourvèdre to ripen fully and develop its signature dark fruit flavors and robust tannins.
A growing number of winemakers became intrigued by Mourvèdre’s potential and began experimenting with the variety. They were drawn to its ability to produce complex, age-worthy wines that could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best of the Old World.
As consumers became more adventurous and sought out unique and distinctive wines, Mourvèdre began to capture their attention. Its bold flavors and tannic structure appealed to those who enjoy full-bodied reds.
Mourvèdre has established itself as a significant player in Washington’s wine industry. Even its often blended with other Rhône varieties like Syrah and Grenache, it also shines as a single-varietal wine.
As Washington’s wine industry continues to evolve, Mourvèdre is poised to stay. Its ability to adapt to different terroirs and produce a wide range of styles ensures that its story in Wa-ine is far from over.
Our favorites:
Mark Ryan – Crazy Mary $45
Dowsett family wineyard $38
The walls Ramparts, blend but great $50
Sigillo cellars $30
Food Pairings:
Chocolate mole with duck confit
Braised in cola lamb shank, with jus and whipped potatoes
Seared ribeye With fois gras
Beef stroganoff
Dark chocolate mousse
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