Mourvedre
Definition - What does Mourvedre mean?
Mourvedre is a red wine variety that is used to make full-bodied reds that are similar to Cabernet Sauvignon.
Originating in Spain, it is used in blending often with the notable Châteauneuf du Pape and it is widely planted in the Rhône valley. The Mourvedre wines and reds made from the grape are robust and better when decanted. They pair well with rich foods that absorb its high tannins like beef, pork, rabbit, lamb or other gamey meats with rice, soy sauce, rosemary, lavender and black pepper.
WineFrog explains Mourvedre
The Mourvedre grape is planted mostly in Spain, France, the United States where it ripens late and prefers warm to hot climates. It does produce a wine with the same name, but, the grape is also used for blending because it adds alcohol and tannins as well as a spicy, herbal structure.
This grape prefers hot climates, but wet conditions. Soils like clay or sand that retain the water are needed to make this grape full-bodied. It is said that the Mourvedre grape adds a primal, animalistic quality to the wine it produces, making it a great addition to heavy meals and rich desserts.
The Mourvedre grape is most commonly blended with Syrah, Grenache and is used as a secret ingredient in Cava Rose.
