Monastrell once again demonstrated its strong appeal in the United Kingdom, this time in a more intimate and strategic format. On 24 April, the Monastrell Spain Association brought together a select group of buyers, importers and wine professionals in London for an exclusive wine-pairing lunch held at The Punch Bowl, in the heart of Mayfair.
The event, carefully designed for a professional audience, aimed to strengthen the presence of the Monastrell grape variety in the British market through a complete sensory experience: wine, gastronomy and knowledge.
A journey through Monastrell, glass by glass
The session was led by Leta Bester, Director at the London Wine Academy, who guided attendees on an oenological journey through different styles, production areas and winemaking approaches. The tasting and pairing experience clearly showcased the harmony on the palate and the diverse nuances that the variety and its five Designations of Origin can offer.
Throughout the four-course lunch, each dish was carefully matched with a curated selection of wines:
- First course: Fresh & Mediterranean Expressions
The experience opened with light dishes such as pan con tomate, tuna tartare and cured meats, paired with fresh, fruity and vibrant wines:- Genus Rosé 2025, Bodegas BSI, DO Jumilla
- 100×100 Monastrell 2025, Viñedos y Bodegas Asensio Carcelén, DO Jumilla
- Second course: Midweight & Oak Integration
Intensity increased with mushroom tortellini, paired with wines offering greater structure and subtle oak integration:- Camaleónica 2023, Dobledeperez Microbodega, DO Jumilla
- Consentido Monastrell Barrica 2023, Bodegas La Purísima, DO Yecla
- Paraje La Cingla Pie Franco 2024, Finca Monastasia, DO Jumilla
- Third course: Structured Red Comparison
A robust grilled steak was served alongside:- Laudum XII 2023, Bocopa, DO Alicante
- Pueblo de Lavia 2022, Bodegas Lavia, DO Bullas
- Los Losares Monastrell 2021, Bodegas Piqueras, DO Almansa
- Final course: Flagship Expressions
The closing course paired aged cheeses and walnuts with deeper, more expressive wines designed to leave a lasting impression:- Triga 2021, Bodegas Volver, DO Alicante
- Barahonda Summum Organic 2023, Barahonda, DO Yecla
- Las Quebradas 2022, Mendoza Winery, DO Alicante
UK reference website on Monastrell Spain: https://londonwineacademy.com/wine-trade/monastrell/
Food pairing as the key to understanding Monastrell
In a market as competitive and demanding as the UK, food pairing is a fundamental tool for highlighting the value of wine. Beyond standalone tastings, combining wine with gastronomy allows for the discovery of nuances, balancing of intensities, and a fuller expression of a variety’s potential.
In this regard, Monastrell stands out for its versatility. Its ability to adapt to different culinary styles—from fresh and light dishes to more structured fare—makes it particularly attractive for the international hospitality sector and for consumers who are increasingly open to new experiences.
The excellent reception of the event and the strong interest shown by attendees once again confirm the growing positioning of Monastrell wines in the British market and reinforce the work of the Monastrell Spain Association in creating further commercial opportunities in the UK.
