The Monastrell Grape Wins Acclaim from the British Public in London During The Big Christmas Wine Fest 2025

The latest major initiative within the international promotion plan of Monastrell Spain took place in London during The Big Christmas Wine Fest, organised by WineAlive and held on 21 and 22 November 2025 at The Lindley Hall. This event, one of the most significant for consumers in the United Kingdom, offered an excellent platform to showcase the authentic Mediterranean character of Monastrell and its growing recognition in a strategic market.

Under the charismatic motto “Sip Splendidly!”, attendees, opinion leaders and wine enthusiasts enjoyed a festive atmosphere accompanied by high-quality wines.

A Prominent Presence for Monastrell España

Monastrell España participated with a strong and very well-received programme:
• A stand featuring 14 wines from the five designations of origin: DO Bullas, DO Jumilla, DO Alicante, DO Yecla and DO Almansa.
• Three public tastings, all drawing large audiences.
• Pop-up tastings led by MW Tim Atkin and Oz Clarke, who each day presented six different wines in dynamic and educational sessions.

Stand-out Wines Featured in MW Tim Atkin’s Tastings

• Time Waits For No One Double Skull 2024 – EGO Bodegas – DO Jumilla
• Bruma del Estrecho de Marín 2024 – Viña Elena – DO Jumilla
• Camarillas 2022 – Bodegas Pinoso – DO Alicante
• La Purísima Monastrell 2024 – Bodegas La Purísima – DO Yecla
• Valché 2020 – Bodega Monastrell – DO Bullas
• Cueva del Chamán Roble Monastrell 2023 – Santa Cruz de Alpera – DO Almansa

The 14 Wines Presented at the Monastrell España Stand

1. Carrascalejo Rosado 2024– Bodegas Carrascalejo – DO Bullas
2. Olivares Tinto 2024– Bodegas Olivares – DO Jumilla
3. Viña Guerán 2023– Casa Balaguer – DO Alicante
4. Juan Gil Silver Label 2023– Bodegas Juan Gil – DO Jumilla
5. Cueva del Chamán Roble Monastrell 2023– Santa Cruz de Alpera – DO Almansa
6. NOSTRUM 2021– Bodegas Matamangos – DO Almansa
7. Old Hands Roble 2022– Bodegas La Purísima – DO Yecla
8. Camarillas 2022– Bodegas Pinoso – DO Alicante
9. Castaño Solanera 2022– Bodegas Castaño – DO Yecla
10. Altos de Luzón 2022– Bodegas Luzón – DO Jumilla
11. Tarima Hill 2022– Bodegas Volver – DO Alicante
12. Barahonda Summum Organic 2022– Bodegas Barahonda – DO Yecla
13. Gémina Cuvée Selección 2020– Bodegas BSI – DO Jumilla
14. Partal Old Vines 2019– Bodega Balcona – DO Bullas

The public response was exceptionally positive, particularly regarding the in-depth discovery of Monastrell as an indigenous Mediterranean gem, its stylistic diversity, and the quality of the wines presented.
Many attendees highlighted the grape’s remarkable potential, demonstrated through the variety of wines showcased and the breadth of styles crafted by producers from these prestigious regions of south-eastern Spain.

In addition, participants were highly impressed by Monastrell’s natural capacity to adapt to climate change, thanks to its resilience to extreme temperatures. This makes it a robust, sustainable and strategically important variety for the future. A shared conclusion among experts and consumers alike was that Monastrell is not only a grape of great relevance today, but also a sound choice for tomorrow.

The Best Choice for This Christmas

Following the success in London, Monastrell Spain warmly encourages all wine lovers —true connoisseurs of quality— to choose Monastrell wines this Christmas. They are the ideal option for toasting, delighting guests and enjoying these special festive moments.
As always, Monastrell pairs beautifully with roasts, mature cheeses, spiced dishes and traditional desserts, making it the perfect companion for family gatherings and authentic celebrations.
Thank you to all attendees —and to our hosts Oz, MW Tim & Olly!— for making this event such a success.