When you imagine the Mediterranean gastronomic experience what comes to mind is a balmy night on a terrace, a long table replete with plates of healthy food, the unmistakeable aromas of herbs and spices and the buzz of lively conversation between friends and family.
In this scenario, there is another element that’s a symbol of tradition and pleasure: wine. And within this culture of wine, few grape varieties encapsulate the Mediterranean spirit quite like Monastrell.
This wine, with its deep roots in the history and land of the Mediterranean, is part of the Mediterranean diet. Its legacy, its health benefits when consumed in moderation, and its capacity to enhance flavours make Monastrell an essential ingredient in how people who live the Mediterranean lifestyle live and enjoy life.
Monastrell: A Variety with Identity and Mediterranean Tradition
Monastrell is a grape variety indigenous to the Spanish Levant, with a history that dates back more than 2,000 years. Its cultivation has resisted the passage of time and it is consolidated across 5 Designations of Origin that preserve its legacy: DO Alicante, DO Almansa, DO Bullas, DO Jumilla and DO Yecla, where the warm and dry climate mould its character.
Beyond its oenological quality, its presence on the table is linked to health, tradition and the art of sharing.
Wine in the Mediterranean Diet: More than a Drink, a Lifestyle
For centuries, Monastrell wine has been a part of the social life and festivals of Mediterranean villages. From family occasions to popular celebrations, its presence on the table is synonymous with sharing, pleasure and honouring traditions.
Beyond its oenological qualities and health benefits, Monastrell forms part of a social and cultural ritual that defines life along the Mediterranean. Sharing a bottle at a family meal, toasting at a celebration or enjoying a glass in the evening is about something more than the wine itself; it’s about connecting with tradition and with others.
Monastrell has inspired generations of winemakers, cooks, artists and lovers of the good life. Its presence on the Mediterranean tables is no coincidence, but a reflection of a culture in which pleasure and health go hand in hand.
Monastrell and its Benefits (when enjoyed responsibly)
Numerous studies have found that responsible consumption of red wine is linked to a longer life and a better quality of life.
If consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise, it can have benefits for our health.
Red wine, and Monastrell in particular, is rich in polyphenols, natural antioxidants that help neutralise free radicals, delaying cellular ageing and protecting the cardiovascular system. What’s more, moderate consumption of red wine like Monastrell can increase levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and reduce “bad” cholesterol (LDL), favouring a balanced metabolism.
Responsible consumption of wine is associated with a sensation of relaxation and enjoyment, improving quality of life. A glass of Monastrell, enjoyed in good company, can reduce stress and help produce endorphins, improving one’s mood. The key is always balance: one or two glasses in the context of a healthy diet. Always drink responsibly.
The Perfect Pairing: Monastrell on the Mediterranean Table
In Mediterranean culture, sharing wine at the table with friends and family is a tradition that strengthens social and emotional bonds.
The healthy eating provided by the Mediterranean Diet is perfectly compatible with the pleasure of enjoying flavoursome dishes. Monastrell wines have inspired great chefs for generations. Their gastronomic versatility allows for exquisite pairings with iconic Mediterranean dishes.
- Grilled meats: Enhancing the intense flavours of red meat and lamb.
- Cured cheeses: Complements Manchego and other sheep milk cheeses.
- Traditional stews: It’s structure pairs well with dishes prepared with legumes and spices.
- Rice and fish dishes: It’s complexity makes for a pleasant surprise with rice dishes with game or oily fish like red tuna.
The Mediterranean Diet is more than just a way of eating, it’s a way of understanding life, based on quality, sustainability and conscious enjoyment. As part of this balance, Monastrell plays a fundamental role, providing sensory pleasure and contributing to a better quality of life. Everything framed within moderate consumption patterns, combined with a meal and in a social setting.
We raise a glass to Monastrell, to the Mediterranean diet and everything it represents. Cheers!
The scientific studies supporting the information mentioned above are the following:
Reduced Stress-Related Neural Network Activity Mediates the Effect of Alcohol on Cardiovascular Risk. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Nº 2023 Jun, 81 (24) 2315–2325. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.04.015
The role of resveratrol in neurogenesis: a systematic review. Nutrition Reviews (Nutr Rev.). Nº 2024 Mar 20:nuae025. doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nuae025. Online ahead of print.
Alcohol consumption and risk of dementia: 23 year follow-up of Whitehall II cohort study. BMJ 2018; 362 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.k2927
