Mourvèdre

Grape Directory

Background

It is nearly certain that this variety is of Catalonian or Spanish origin. Indeed a couple of its names are revealing, for there is not only a town close to Valencia called Murviedro but also a town in Cataluña of the name Mataro (which is one the variety's synonyms). It does seem strange then that its principal name seems to be of French derivation. But so it is and hence the correct pronunciation is either "MOO-vahd" or "MOOr-vahd" (but not "moor-Vey-druh").

Key Regions

Spain (particularly in the eastern peninsula where it is the main grape variety); France (southern Rhône Valley; Languedoc-Roussillon); Australia (the Barossa Valley); California

Climate Suitability

This variety is most suited to warm or hot climates close to the sea, which enable it to ripen completely. It has more trouble doing so in France, where the climate is cooler, and it is only really in the south of this country that the weather is warm enough for this vine's cultivation. If indeed the conditions are warm, then this sturdy vine is capable of flourishing in a variety of soil types. In such conditions it is also usually able to withstand the threat of downy and powdery mildews, to which it is much more vulnerable in cooler climates.

Colour and Flavours

This vine produces striking deep red wines of great power. The flavours tend to vary considerably depending on where the grapes are grown. However, they are characteristically coarse, earthy and gamey when young and then mellow with age to develop flavours and aromas of spices, herbs and black fruits.

Synonyms

Monastrell, Morastell (Spain) Balzac, Espar, Estrangle-Chien, Flouron, Flouroux, Morvède, Mourvedon, Mourvès, Négron, Spar, Tire-Droit (France); Mataró (the New World, Portugal and the Pyrénèes-Orientales); Esparte (an old Australian name)

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