Enrique Mendoza Monastrell Estrecho 2019 750ml

The Monastrell 2019 Estrecho was produced with grapes from vines planted on sandy soils that matured in 2,000-liter French oak foudres for 16 months. The oak feels quite integrated, and the wine comes through as varietal with notes of esparto grass and tree bark with ripe berries and Mediterranean herbs. It’s juicy, round and full-bodied with fine tannins and a long, dry and tasty finish. It should develop nicely in bottle. 10,000 bottles were filled in March 2021.

• Country: Spain
• Region: Valencia
• Appellation: Alicante
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 14.5%

Varietal

Mourvedre

Mourvèdre is a fascinating and ancient grape varietal, thought to have been introduced to Spain by the ancient Phoenicians over two thousand years ago. Since then, it has found a home in many regions of France, and has gone on to be a key grape varietal in the New World, where it is often blended with Grenache and Syrah varietals to make a beautifully rounded and balanced red wine. The Mourvèdre grape itself is renowned for holding a complex set of flavours, which are often described as meaty or gamey, with plenty of bramble fruit notes. As such, they are often served with dark meats, and are enjoyed in many countries across the globe. The grapes are not the easiest to cultivate, as they require plenty of sunshine alongside well irrigated soil. However, their quality and unique attributes mean that wineries all over the globe continue to persevere with this special varietal.