Do you know Mourvèdre? If you are passionate about wine or simply curious to explore this emblematic Mediterranean grape variety, you are in the right place!
Originally from Spain and renowned for its ability to produce powerful and tannic red wines, the variety is now also well established in several southern French regions.
So, ready to learn everything about Mourvèdre? In this article, discover the history of this fabulous variety, its characteristics, and the best food and wine pairings to enjoy with it.Happy discovery !
History and origins of the Mourvèdre grape variety
Also known as Monastrell in Spain or Mataró in Catalonia (as well as in Australia and California), Mourvèdre is one of the historic grape varieties of the Mediterranean basin. Our variety is believed to have its roots in the Valencia region, more precisely around the city of Murviedro, now called Sagunto.
Over the centuries, Mourvèdre gradually crossed borders to settle in the south of France. Some historians even suggest that it was the Romans who introduced it there.
After several centuries of successful development and acclimatization under this warm Mediterranean climate, the phylloxera crisis, at the end of the 19th century, nevertheless dealt a significant blow to Mourvèdre. Unfortunately imported from the United States, this devastating aphid attacked all the vineyards of Europe and many grape varieties were severely impacted.
Fortunately, starting in the 1950s, several passionate winemakers decided to replant Mourvèdre in order to restore its former glory. This was notably the case within the Bandol AOC which is, still to this day, a very important terroir for the grape variety.
Today, there are more than 60,000 hectares planted worldwide, including 9,000 in France.Spain nevertheless remains the country where the variety is most present, with 50 000 hectares of vines. Australia, with nearly 1 000 hectares, is also an important producer.
Phylloxera: a harmful aphid for European vines
Where is Mourvèdre grown?
As mentioned, Mourvèdre likes warmth and sunshine. It is therefore grown in regions with a warm and dry climate, which is favorable for its late ripening. In France, it is mainly found within three major wine regions: Provence, the Rhône Valley, and Languedoc-Roussillon.
In Provence, its estimated area is 4 200 hectares, mainly concentrated in the Bandol AOC, where it represents a very significant share of the blends (minimum 50%). It is probably here that it reaches its best expression within the French vineyard. Finally, Mourvèdre is also present in small quantities in other appellations such as Côtes-de-Provence, Coteaux Varois, or Palette.
With 3 000 hectares, the variety has also developed well in the Languedoc-Roussillon vineyard. It is used in several AOCs such as Corbières, Faugères, Saint-Chinian, and Minervois.
In the south of the Rhône Valley, Mourvèdre covers around 600 hectares, particularly within appellations such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, and also Vacqueyras, where it is used alongside Syrah and Grenache.
In Spain, Mourvèdre thrives in the warm and arid regions of the southeast, mainly in areas covered by the DO Jumilla, Yecla, and Alicante appellations. It is also found in Catalonia, such as within the DOQ Priorat.
Internationally, the Californian climate also suits it very well, as does Australia, where it flourishes perfectly, such as in the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale.
Mourvèdre: a grape variety that loves the sun
The characteristics of the Mourvèdre grape variety
Mourvèdre is a demanding and late-ripening grape variety. It is distinguished by its compact clusters and thick-skinned berries of a bluish-black color, covered with bloom.
This variety is also particularly sensitive to climatic conditions. Suited to warm climates, Mourvèdre requires slow ripening and its harvest generally does not begin before the end of September, sometimes even in October.
Although it is not very susceptible to grey rot, Mourvèdre is vulnerable to mites, water stress, and sour rot, factors that can be catastrophic for this delicate vine.
From an aromatic perspective, Mourvèdre offers tasting notes of ripe black fruits (plum, blackberry, blackcurrant) enhanced by spicy touches such as black pepper, as well as animal nuances and truffle. Over time, wines made from Mourvèdre develop complex aromas such as leather and undergrowth.
In their youth, Mourvèdre wines can sometimes seem austere because they are very tannic and powerful. However, the variety rewards the patience of enthusiasts by revealing a great richness of aromas to those who know how to wait.Mourvèdre wines are indeed great age-worthy wines !
What to eat with a wine made from Mourvèdre?
You have a bottle of Mourvèdre on hand and you’re wondering which dish to serve to enhance this powerful and complex grape variety? Don’t worry, here are a few indulgentideas that will do justice to its unique flavors.
Red meats and saucy dishes
Mourvèdre pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats. Whether it’s a rib of beef, duck breast or rosemary lamb chops, the wine’s meaty and spicy notes will enhance the rich flavors of these dishes.
For lovers of slow-cooked dishes, nothing beats a Provençal stew or wild boar casserole, iconic dishes that find a perfect partner in Mourvèdre. Its aromas of game and undergrowth pair wonderfully with the tender textures and creamy sauces of these traditional recipes.
Finally, for an even bolder pairing, try a truffle risotto or pasta with black truffles. An aromatic symphony awaits !
Mourvèdre and Provençal stew: a combination rich in flavor!
Exotic and Spicy Cuisine
For lovers of exotic cuisine, Mourvèdre can also be an excellent choice.Its spicy and smoky aromas pair very well with dishes with oriental flavors.
A lamb tagine with spices or a royal couscous enriched with smoked meat will bring out the spicy and warm character of the wine.
Provençal cuisine and Mourvèdre rosés
Mourvèdre is not limited to just tannic reds ! The rosés made from this grape variety, particularly in the Bandol region, reveal a vibrant freshness and an aromatic palette that call for sunny dishes from Provençal cuisine.
Serve a Mourvèdre rosé with a pissaladière or a tapenade for a typical starter, or pair it with saffron shrimp, or even grilled red mullet for a complete Mediterranean experience. Sea urchins and cod brandade will also be excellent companions for this type of rosé!
Finally, a Mourvèdre rosé will obviously pair perfectly with a charcuterie platter (coppa, sausage, cured ham).A timeless classic !
In order to ideally reveal the aromatic nuances specific to each Mourvèdre wine, it is recommended to serve red wines from this grape variety at around 16-18°C as well as rosés between 8-10°C.
With all these suggestions, you are now ready to fully enjoy this unique grape variety !
The best wines from the Mourvèdre grape variety
Among the best wines from the Mourvèdre grape variety, Domaine Tempier is an essential reference.Located in Bandol, this family estate produces powerful red wines, where Mourvèdre shines through its aromas of black fruits, pepper, and spices.
Cuvées such as La Tourtine and La Migoua are examples of great single-vineyard wines that are both rich and complex, capable of aging with incredible elegance.
The estate's rosé is also a particularly successful must-try that we highly recommend!
So, convinced by Mourvèdre? If you wish to explore this fascinating grape variety, be sure to visit our website La Cave Éclairée! See you soon and... cheers!
