My first contact with Bodegas Monastrell of Denominación de Origen Bullas (DO Bullas) was a little confusing.
In this part of southern Spain, Monastrell is the darling grape variety – as a monovarietal, in a blend, it’s used in probably 90% of all red wines of the zone, and to very good effect as well. So, I could understand a winery wanting to take ownership of the name – but, surely all others would have a similar claim?
However, on talking to Alejandro and Alfonso, it was clear that their naming the winery Bodegas Monastrell, is in no way an attempt to misappropriate the name of the variety. Rather, it’s an example of paying homage to this wonderful grape. And, when you taste the wines they make with it – well, it’s clear they also pay homage through their craft!
