The growing popularity of the Monastrell varietal and its wines in the United Kingdom is no accident. Current trends among British consumers are more leaning firmly towards wines with differentiating characteristics, offering authenticity and quality, without forgetting sustainability and adaptation to climate change. Monastrell, thanks to its natural resistance and capacity to prosper in dryer climates, is positioned as an ideal option. Wine professionals and importers say they see it as a competitive option compared to more established varietals.
A recent Masterclass in London hosted by renowned Master of Wine Patrick Schmitt saw the participation of 55 attendees, exceeding expectations. Schmitt, also editor-in-chief of The Drinks Business, guided participants through a technical tasting of 11 selected wines, showcasing the unique characteristics of Monastrell and their potential for the British market. Attendees expressed their interest in this Mediterranean varietal, highlighting its potential as a varietal in the face of climate change and its capacity to adapt to different winemaking styles.
The Tasting Room hosted after the Masterclass underlined how Monastrell is not just another option on the market, but a Mediterranean varietal capable of producing balanced and sophisticated wines with real personality that attract both enthusiasts and new consumers in search of different and memorable experiences. This event offered a comprehensive journey through the richness of this grape varietal with 40 wines from across the five Designations of Origin: Alicante, Almansa, Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla.
With its thriving food and wine scene, the city of Manchester is proving a receptive market with great margin for growth for Monastrell. In a more accessible format and with an educational approach, we organised an informative session on Monastrell at the Northern Wine School. This school, a pioneering institution in training sommeliers in the city, was the perfect space in which to present Monastrell as a one of the most promising varietals in this emerging market.
The city boasts a growing community of avid wine lovers keen to discover new varietals offering something different, something that Monastrell fulfils with a wide range of styles from aromatic reds to fresh rosés and elegant, sweet whites.
The success of these events and the growing interest in Monastrell wines promise a bright future for our varietal in the United Kingdom. Professionals in the sector recognise that consumers are increasingly more open to exploring wines that, like Monastrell, offer something different and can satisfy the most discerning palates. Monastrell, with its rich history and its capacity to offer wines that combine the traditional and the modern, is well positioned to continue to carve out territory in this discerning market.