Mourvèdre

The black grape variety is one of the “stars” of the South of France

In fact, it comes from Spain where it is found under the name Monastrell or Mataro, as in Australia or California . It is mentioned for the first time in the 14th century, in Catalonia. It was probably introduced into France in the 16th century, mainly in Provence which quickly adopted it.

Mourvèdre is a low-yielding grape variety, very late and very demanding with regard to the climate. It needs plenty of sunlight and high temperatures to reach full maturity . Generally, it is grown in a traditional cup and therefore takes the form of a small tree, without the need for the support of trellising wires or stakes. It particularly thrives near the Mediterranean coasts, in places where a light breeze blows which brings a little humidity at the end of the day. Because of these small, tightly packed berries, it is susceptible to gray rot.

Monastrell or Mourvèdre has a tendency to reduction, which means that it needs time and a lot of air to express its aromas. You have to be attentive to this already during vinification but also with the finished wine which must be left to mature for a few years. It benefits from being Decantered before tasting it.

Very often Mourvèdre, which expresses itself with aromas of blackberries and marked acidity, is blended with other grape varieties from the South. Thus it brings structure to more supple wines.

The main partners of Mourvèdre are Grenache , Syrah and Cinsault. These four grape varieties produce the majority of southern Côtes du Rhône wines. It is only after a few years in the bottle that these wines fully reveal the potential of this grape variety. Warm, intense and full of character, these wines go well with Mediterranean dishes. As they age, they become rounder, gain finesse and express themselves with freshness and elegance.