🔍 Quick Summary

Mourvèdre is a bold, sun-loving red grape known for its meaty, herbal flavors and key role in GSM blends, especially in the southern Rhône and Spain.

📜 History

Origin: Born in the 14th century in Spain’s Valencia region — believed to be native, with ancestry traced back to Graciano and Hebén (debated).
Known as Monastrell in Spain and later as Mourvèdre in France after arriving via Provence.
Flourished in Bandol in southern France, where it became the backbone of the region’s deep, age-worthy reds.
Nearly vanished post-phylloxera but saw revival in 20th-century southern France and modern Spain.
Became a darling of Rhône Rangers in California, adding depth to New World GSM blends.

Heat-Lover: Mourvèdre needs plenty of sunshine and heat to fully ripen.
Structure & Ageability: Known for firm tannins and meaty, gamey depth — excellent for aging.
Blending Powerhouse: Adds color, spice, and backbone to Grenache and Syrah in classic GSM blends.
Goes Solo Too: In Bandol and parts of Spain, it shines as a single-varietal wine with serious personality.
Sensitive to Site: Performs best in warm, dry, coastal climates with good drainage.

🇫🇷 Bandol, France – Limestone + Mediterranean = Bold, gamey reds
Warm Mediterranean | 75–85°F (24–29°C)

🇪🇸 Valencia, Spain (as Monastrell) – Sandy + Arid heat = Fruity, earthy intensity
Hot Continental | 80–95°F (27–35°C)

🇫🇷 Southern Rhône, France – Stony + Dry warmth = Spicy, structural blender
Warm Mediterranean | 75–85°F (24–29°C)

🇺🇸 Paso Robles, California – Calcareous + Hot sun = Juicy, smoky New World style
Hot Mediterranean | 85–100°F (29–38°C)

🇦🇺 McLaren Vale, Australia – Ironstone + Coastal breeze = Dense, lush Mourvèdre
Warm Mediterranean | 75–90°F (24–32°C)

A dark, brooding red with earthy soul and spicy edges.

Color: Deep garnet to purple
Aromas & Flavors:
- Primary: Black plum, blackberry, dried herbs, wild game
- Secondary: Smoke, leather, baking spice
- Tertiary: Truffle, forest floor, balsamic notes (with age)
Structure:
- Body: Full
- Tannin: High
- Acidity: Medium to medium-high
- Alcohol: 13.5–15.5%

Robust and rustic, Mourvèdre responds to bold winemaking choices.

Traditional Fermentation: Long maceration for tannin extraction and depth
Oak Aging: Often aged in large barrels or neutral oak to soften structure
Blending Role: Key in GSM blends, especially in southern Rhône and New World
Whole Cluster Ferments: Sometimes used for added spice and freshness

Pairs best with hearty, rustic dishes that match its savory weight.