Mourvedre is a red grape planted in several countries, but best known for its use in the Rhone Valley of France. It is most commonly used as a blending variety in Châteauneuf-du-Pape; it is also found in red wines from southern France, such as Bandol, Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon. Mourvedre is also known as Monastrell and is used as a blending grape in several Spanish reds such as La Mancha and Conca de Barbera.

Mourvedre can also be made on its own, as in California and Australia. The wines are deep in color and robust with ripe blackberry and black plum fruit with distinct spice; acidity is good and there are medium-weight tannins. These wines should be paired with rich food with a zesty character, be it barbecued chicken or pork, wild game or stews. (Wine/Grapes)