Did You Know?... About Monastrell

Monastrell is a red grape from Spain, also known as Mourvedre in France. It shows up in the New World infrequently, often in blends. It tends to produce earthy wines, with hints of red fruit, high in alcohol and tanins. Given the strong backbone and deep flavors, it can age well. In France, it makes up part of Rhone blends.

Quick Review: Juan Gil Monastrell

Spain, Jumilla, Juan Gil, Monastrell 2010
+ // Earthy // Chocolate, Tobacco, Cherry // Earth, Raspberry, Cola // Medium

With Ethiopian food, the earthiness matched the meat, while the fruit notes balanced with the spiciness.

Quick Review...Bodegas Castano

Spain, Castano, Bodegas Castano, Monastrell 2010
+ // Sweet // Apple, Cherry // Red apples, Strawberry // Medium