05/21/2026
Today is Mourvèdre day!
Mourvèdre Day is celebrated annually on May 21. It honors the ancient, thick-skinned red wine grape known for its bold flavors of dark fruit, savory roasted meat, and earthy spices. Also known as Monastrell in Spain and Mataro in Australia and California, this heat-loving grape thrives in warm, dry climates.
Why Mourvèdre is Special
The "M" in GSM: It is most famously used as a foundational blending grape alongside Grenache and Syrah (the classic Rhône GSM blend), adding deep color, structural tannins, and gamey complexity.
Stand-Alone Wines: When bottled on its own, it yields highly structured, full-bodied red wines that are excellent for aging.
Fantastic Rosé: It is a premier grape for robust, textured rosés, especially in the Bandol region of France (one of RK's favorites!)
Perfect PairingsBecause of its distinct earthy, peppery, and meaty profile, Mourvèdre pairs beautifully with foods that have similar bold flavors:Barbecue, smoked meats, and brisket.Roasted or braised meats like lamb and oxtail.Hearty roasted vegetables and rich eggplant.
Learn more:
Mourvedre wine is an obscure grape used in some of the most famous red blends of the world. Discover its flavor and food pairings.
