Marvelous Mourvèdre

Mourvèdre is a wine of many names. Called Mourvèdre in France and the U.S., Mataró in Portugal, and Monastrell in Spain, it originated on the Mediterranean coast of Spain and dates to approximately 500 BC. It was the predominant grape variety in Provence from its introduction there in the 16th century until the phylloxera epidemic made it scarce. Now Mourvèdre is making a comeback in France, Spain, and the New World.

The grapes are blue-black with thick skins, and produce an intense wine well-suited to aging. Mourvèdre often has flavors of leather, wild game, or earth mingled with soft fruit. It is used to balance other wines in blends, especially Grenache and Syrah, but it also makes a fine varietal wine. Found in both rose wines and red wines, Mourvèdre is also made into a fortified red wine in Languedoc-Roussillon.

Mourvèdre ripens late, and therefore does better when planted in coastal regions, as large bodies of water help it to mature. It has a vertical growth habit that many winemakers prefer.

Bodegas Olivares, Torbreck Vintners, and Tardieu-Laurent all produce fine wines with Mourvèdre, and prices can range from the very reasonable (£10) up to the extravagant (£85).

Why not impress your guests with a great example on a sale or return basis today?

To see all Mourvedre Wines available on a sale or return basis for your wedding or party, click here.