Putting The M In GSM
Where It’s Grown
Found predominantly in vineyards on or near the Mediterranean; Monastrell prefers a continental climate, mild winters and hot summers with an extended growing season. The vine is late to bud allowing growers a little more flexibility in where it is planted, however, the fact that it does ripen later opens it up to the potential of rot even though Monastrell is less susceptible than other varieties.
In France, Monastrell thrives in regions such as the Southern Rhône, Provence, and Bandol, while in Spain the grape is grown more in the center and south eastern portion of the country in regions such as Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia, and Valencia. However, Monastrell is not suitable for cultivation much further north due to late ripening which is characteristic of the varietal. Monastrell is highly susceptible to drought so great care must be taken in choosing proper vineyard sites. Deep calcareous soils are where this grape will thrive.
Characteristics
Monastrell requires high temperatures to ripen fully especially towards the end. Cooler sites will have a hard time achieving optimal ripeness. The vine yields grapes that are high in tannin and sugar which translates into wines that are high in alcohol.
Varietal Monastrell is common in Spain, South Africa, and parts of the United States, but more often, produces will use this grape to add weight to blends. Grenache and Syrah are its typical bedfellows, however, you can find blends that include Cinsault and Carignan.
Synonyms
Monastrell derives from the Latin word monasteriellu, which itself is a diminutive of monasteriu which translates to the English word monastery leading one to believe the grape was first cultivated by the church.
In the old world, you will find Monastrell under a variety of names. In France, the grape is often called Mourvèdre. In Spain, Monastrell is called Alcayata, Garrut, Gayata, Mataró, or Ros.
The new world countries of the United States and Australia will label Monastrell as either Mourvèdre or Mataro.
Similarities in the vineyard oftentimes cause Bobal and Graciano to be mislabeled as Monastrell, however, they are very much their own varietals.
In The Glass
Look for notes of dark red fruits such as blackberries and bitter flavors such as espresso. As previously mentioned, Monastrell is capable of producing wines that are high in tannins and, due to the higher sugar levels, higher in potential alcohol.
Producers of Note
Domaine du Gros ‘Noré - Bandol
Domaine Tempier - Bandol
Juan Gil - Jumilla
Tablas Creek Vineyard - Paso Robles
Torbreck - Barossa Valley
Powell & Son - Barossa Valley
Sadie Family Wines - Swartland
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