Castano Monastrell 2007, Yecla, Spain VALUE RED $6.99-8.99

Monastrell or Mourvèdre? It is in fact the same grape varietal. Mourvèdre is the French name and Monastrell the Spanish derivation. It is an interesting grape because it has a natural compound that is resistant to oxidation and the best examples can age for 50 years easy. Rose from Domaine Tempier in Bandol has been known to age and taste quite youthful after 25 years! It is in fact my favorite Rose and to me the standard by which all Rose should be judged, but enough of France as this is a Spanish version! In fact speaking of Spain the grape was/is sometimes also called Mataro and many think that was its origin. It spread east to Provence and reaches its apex in Bandol, near Provence in the south of France on the Mediterranean coast.

Color: Dark red center, lighter edges

Nose: Spicy raspberry and plum, some gamy notes, smelled like a nicely aromatic Cote du Rhone

Palate: This is ready to go. Very generous similar flavors to the nose. More jammy mixed berries though. Clean finish, though simple without much acidity or tannin. Great quaffer for a mid-week splash of vino!

Cheers!