Familia Pacheco, Vina Elena, 2020, Spain

Monastrell (aka Mourvèdre) from Jumilla; blackcurranty with a meaty note

Now that BBQ season has officially arrived, here is one to go with your burgers and sausages. Monastrell goes particularly well with a bit of charred food, in our experience, anyway.... It’s plump and fruity, with meaty, ferric undertones.

Monastrell is the main red grape grown in Jumilla, the wine region near Alicante or Benidorm. In France, it is known as Mourvèdre - important in Southern Rhone blends and Provence Rosé. And in Australia, you’ll see it as Mataro.

Bodegas Viña Elena is a family business which was started by Elena Pacheco’s father after WWII. She now runs the winery with her sister.