Juan Gil, Jumilla (Murcia, Spain) Monestrell 2020

 Monestrell, also known as Mataro and Mourvedre, is the major red variety in the Jumilla region of Spain.  In fact, according to Food and Wines of Spain, 52% of Monestrell grapes are grown in Murcia, a Province on the Mediterranean coast of southern Spain.  Jumilla, along with Yecla and Bullas are the D.O.s (Denominación de Origen) of the province.  The region has long, hot summer days, in which Monestrell thrives, producing the rich, deep black ruby color of this wine from Juan Gil (pronounced “heel”).  The nights are quite cool because of the over 1600 feet elevation, which maintains a lovely freshness in the wine.  It is rich with juicy ripe blackberry, black cherry flavors, round and smooth in the mouth.  Enjoy it with grilled or roasted beef, pork or lamb to counter the 15% alcohol.  It has a Vegan stamp on the label, so for those who follow this diet, a lentil salad or mushroom ragout will stand up to the wine.