Price: $16.95
Sale Price: $14.95
Another offering from Señora Jover, and her flagship wine at Parajes del Valle. When handled properly, Monastrell from Jumilla in southeastern Spain can be a compelling red wine value. Unfortunately, the region’s arid climate, the bold nature of the grape, and a stylistic affinity for new wood all too often result in over-extracted wines with exorbitant alcohol content. Blessedly, this is not the case at all in Maria’s capable hands. This Monastrell (or Mourvèdre if you’re feeling French) is entirely about the brambly fruit and its inherent fringe of orange zest and spice, not the aforementioned preponderance of new oak or alcohol. This tempered approach in the winery allows the deep, expressive character of her 80-90-year-old vines to shine. It’s concentrated but not overbearing, robust but never syrupy, meaty but always lithe. A truly delicious example of Jumilla, and certified organic to boot! Pair this up with cheeseburgers (especially with a Valencia bleu!), spiced sausage such as chorizo, and garlicky roasted mushrooms.
