Monastrell may not have the instant recognition of grape varieties like Cabernet or Syrah, but don’t let that deter you. This inky grape, also known as Mourvèdre, tastes like a hybrid of the two, combining concentrated power, broad fruit flavors, and a full body.

Rafael Cañizares, founder of Bodegas Volver, is a champion of Alicante’s ancient vines. This fourth-generation winegrower sources grapes from otherwise-forgotten bush-trained vines planted between 1935 and 1970 in the rocky, poor limestone soils of Alicante. The heat of the growing season in this rugged, coastal region in southeastern Spain is tempered by the high elevation and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

Old vines and this extreme terroir, with its wild temperature swings, make this a gorgeous blend of sun-baked power and liveliness that absolutely blew through our tasting panel. It will be perfect with anything grilled or roasted you can throw at it this summer!

About Monastrell