If there is a grape variety that perfectly represents the Mediterranean essence, it is unquestionably the Monastrell. It is more than just a grape variety; it is an integral part of the culture and history of the Mediterranean, passed down from generation to generation up to the present day.

In this post, we want to invite you on a wine journey through the history, characteristics, and uniqueness of the Monastrell variety, a grape that originates in our land and has managed to conquer the hearts of wine lovers around the world. At Bodegas Enrique Mendoza, we proudly boast our connection and respect for this variety, crafting some of our most special wines with it. Join us!

Origen of the Monastrell

Monastrell is a red grape variety with deep roots in the winemaking history of the Mediterranean. Its origin dates back to the Valencia region, specifically believed to have emerged in the 15th century in the municipality of Sagunto, which at that time was an important commercial port in northern Valencia.

According to the most widely accepted theory, its name comes from Latin “monasterium”, it is believed to refer to the monasteries where vines were cultivated in the Middle Ages, which played a crucial role in the preservation and spread of viticulture for centuries.

Throughout history, Monastrell has adapted perfectly to warm climates, capable of withstanding temperature fluctuations, hot summers, and numerous hours of sunshine. It thrives in these conditions thanks to its resistance to drought and its ability to ripen slowly. This slow ripening process allows the grape to develop a rich concentration of sugars and polyphenols, which are essential for the production of high-quality wines.

Geographical distribution

Although Valencia is its birthplace, Monastrell is widely cultivated in other regions of Spain, mainly in the Murcia Denominations of Origin (D.O. Jumilla, D.O. Yecla and D.O. Bullas), in the D.O. of Alicante and the D.O. Almansa.

Outside Spain, this variety has made a name for itself in the south of France (where it is known as Mourvèdre), especially in the Provence region and the Rhône area. In Catalonia, California and some parts of Australia, where it is called Mataró or Mataro in allusion to the Catalan city of the same name (believed to be the port of origin of many commercial vessels transporting wine in previous centuries), we also find a significant presence of this grape variety.

Each of these regions brings its own unique characteristics to Monastrell, influenced by the climate, soil and local viticultural practices. This geographical diversity enriches the profile of Monastrell, offering a range of expressions from young and fruity wines to robust and complex wines.

Characteristics of the grape

Monastrell is characterized by its compact bunches, small berries, and thick skin, which is rich in tannins and anthocyanins. The latter are responsible for the deep, intense red color that characterizes the variety, while the tannins provide the structure and astringency that allow the wine to evolve favorably in the bottle.

In terms of flavor, Monastrell offers a rich and complex sensory experience. Wines made from this grape typically have a silky, well-balanced texture. On the palate, dominant flavors include ripe black fruits, such as plums, blackberries, and cherries. These fruity notes are complemented by spicy and earthy nuances, which can include black pepper, Mediterranean herbs, lavender, and hints of licorice and leather.

On the nose, typical Monastrell aromas include a combination of ripe fruits and spices, along with floral and herbal notes. In aged wines (those that, due to their characteristics, can continue maturing in the bottle), aromas such as tobacco, cocoa and truffle can also develop.

Planting frames

Monastrell can and is usually grown using the two main systems of vine training: trellis training or bush training. Below we highlight the unique features and benefits of each of them.

• Trellises: The trellises or espalier technique is one of the most common ways of cultivating Monastrell in the Mediterranean region. This training system, which is the predominant one in new vineyards, consists of using support cords and wires in a direction perpendicular to the growth of the vine, which guide the arms of the vine and encourage the growth of two branches on the trunk in the direction of the wire. This system gives rise to continuous linear vegetation, allowing optimal exposure of the leaves and bunches to the sun, which facilitates photosynthesis and uniform ripening of the grapes. And the greater the photosynthesis, the greater the yield of the vines. Cultivation on espaliers is the most appropriate for achieving high yields, as well as for carrying out the harvest in a more comfortable and quick way, since its layout allows it to be done in a mechanized way.

• Goblet pruned: The goblet cultivation technique is a traditional practice in Mediterranean viticulture, especially for old vines. In this system, the vines are allowed to grow more naturally, without the support of wire structures. This allows the plants to develop a low bush form, which helps to protect the grapes from the intense Mediterranean sun and reduce water stress. Goblet vines usually produce smaller, more concentrated bunches, with a greater intensity of flavour, giving a lower yield, but of higher quality. Vines grown through this system tend to demand more attention and require more work, since the tasks in this case are less mechanized, for example, their harvest, unlike vines on trellises, has to be manual.

From bulk wines to high-quality wines

Monastrell has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a grape used primarily for bulk wine production. For a long time, its high productivity and resilience made it popular with winegrowers looking to maximize yield. However, this focus on quantity often resulted in wines of varying quality and little appreciated in the market.

Over time, the perception of Monastrell began to change. Growers and winemakers began to recognize its potential to produce high-quality wines, especially when grown in optimal conditions and managed with proper viticultural techniques.

In recent decades, Monastrell has experienced a renaissance, driven by the dedication of producers committed to quality and innovation. In regions such as Alicante, we winegrowers have adopted sustainable practices and advanced winemaking methods to bring out the best characteristics of this variety, while always maintaining a deep respect for the traditional techniques and ancestral knowledge that have made Monastrell such a special grape.

The effort and dedication of Monastrell producers has been rewarded with growing international recognition. Today, wines made from Monastrell are valued for their authenticity and their ability to offer a unique sensory experience.

Our tribute to Monastrell at Bodegas Enrique Mendoza

At Bodegas Enrique Mendoza, we have been part of this resurgence of Monastrell. Our philosophy is based on respect for tradition, a commitment to innovation and a commitment to sustainability and quality. We work hard to cultivate our Monastrell vines and to produce wines that reflect the essence of our land and the nobility of this variety. These are some of the Enrique Mendoza wines with which you can enjoy an authentic experience around the Monastrell variety:

• EM Finca Xaconero: This wine captures the essence of our mountains, the climate and the Mediterranean sun. Made with 100% Monastrell from bush vines, this is a wine from a carefully selected vineyard located on the slopes of the “Cabezo de la Virgen” in Villena. It is the perfect accompaniment to a good grilled meat.
• EM Estrecho: Made from Monastrell grapes from the unique Estrecho de Pipa vineyard, which stands out for its sandy alluvial soils. This wine is the ultimate expression of the terroir, with exceptional complexity and elegance. Ideal to accompany elaborate and sophisticated dishes, such as roast lamb or beef stew.
• EM Las Quebradas: 100% Monastrell wine, made from a single plot located in the “Las Quebradas” area in Villena, situated 500 metres above sea level and with “edaphological” (soil) characteristics that make it unique. This is a wine that faithfully expresses the identity of the vineyard from which it is born. The bedrock and caliche soil, the climate and the Monastrell variety are the protagonists of an ideal wine to accompany the most “gourmet” dishes, which will enhance its minerality.
• EM La Tremenda Monastrell: This wine is made from 100% Monastrell grapes from our vineyards at the “Finca Chaconero” in Villena. The vineyard, located 600 metres above sea level and with a plant age of 26 years, is treated with environmentally friendly practices to give life to wines as unique and authentic as EM La Tremenda.
• EM Rosado Monastrell: A single-vineyard wine made from 100% Monastrell grapes that is a fresh and vibrant expression of our vineyards located in “Cabezo de la Virgen” in Villena, a reflection of the Mediterranean terroir. Its fruity flavours reminiscent of strawberry, watermelon or peach make it the perfect choice to accompany salads, seafood or pasta dishes on a summer day.

We hope you have enjoyed this tour of Monastrell and that we have sparked your interest in this authentic jewel of the Mediterranean.

To sum up, We invite you to visit our online store and discover our complete wine catalogue, choose the one that best suits your tastes and let yourself be carried away on a wine experience with our star variety as the protagonist.

We assure you that it will not leave you indifferent!