The 2005 Bodegas Juan Gil Monastrell Jumilla, Spain is an unsung hero amongst affordable red wines. Those who know it love it, and as always, those who don’t love it probably haven’t tried it lately. Monastrell has been grown in Spain forever, and in France for a very long time as well, where it is known as Mourvedre. Yes, the picture is coming into focus now… In Jumilla the grapes tend to grow better in the drier and hotter weather, on gnarled, very old vines. This, of course, produces teensy, very concentrated Monastrell grapes, and thusly wines that are rich and complex. Monastrell also has an inherent dark berry and spice characteristic that comes through in the wine as an almost blackberry/ clove/ allspice/ cinnamon aroma that is nice and subtle. When oak barrels are used, the additional hints of vanilla and toast can be present. Yeah, AND? Well, I challenge anyone to find a better Monastrell for $15!! Pair this wine with a well made, classic beef stew, game meats, a juicy ribeye, grilled pork tenderloin rubbed with garam masala and lavender, or any recipe that one is inclined to make for a meal. That is the beauty of wines like this, they bring the spice, complexity, and a sense of the exotic to any meal. It’s the key to the extra step up from good to great eating and drinking… pass the warm baguette, please!(I think it’s a crying shame that this is not on the wine lists here and there by the glass!)
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