Mourvèdre

Question: Why is Mourvèdre often treated like a third wheel? Answer: first, its French name can be a challenge to pronounce; second, both Monastrell (Spanish), as well as Mataro (both in Spain and Australia) are frequently utilized alternatives; third, it’s not usually bottled as a varietal and rarely sings lead in blends.

Despite these obstacles, Mourvèdre/Monastrell/Mataro is a grape variety worthy of the spotlight, not only in France and other European countries but also in California. Although the grape is grown in 30 of California’s 58 counties, its best expressions are concentrated in just a couple:  Lodi/Contra Costa and San Luis Obispo, with small amounts grown in Santa Barbara, El Dorado, and Sonoma. Historically, producers who are committed to quality and/or have older vineyards are the state’s focus, with newer plantings in the Central Coast driving the more modern-day push. Indeed, and with sadness, some of the state’s oldest vineyards in Lodi and Central Coast are succumbing to urban development and being pulled out in favor of housing developments. So, thank goodness for the Rhone Ranger push around San Luis Obispo. Finally, plantings of Mourvèdre are minimal in areas where volume and lower costs are drivers. The reality that fewer than 490 ha/1,210 acres are planted is a testament to the dedication of those who opt to grow this variety.

Mourvèdre Around The World:

Below is a list of principal areas of the world associated with premium Mourvèdre.

• France: Provence (Bandol, Côtes de Provence); southern Rhône Valley (Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Costières de Nîmes, Ventoux); Languedoc (Saint-Chinian)
• Spain: Murcia (Jumilla, Yecla, Bullas), Castilla-La Mancha, Valencia
• Australia: South Australia (McLaren Vale, Barossa), New South Wales (Riverina)
• Other Countries: Cyprus, Turkey, South Africa (Stellenbosch) 
• The Americas: The states of Washington, Oregon, Texas, Arizona, Virginia and Missouri; Chile’s Central Valley (Maule and Colchagua)