Juan Gil Monastrell 2008

Natalie's Review

Juan Gil Monastrell 2008, D.O., Jumilla, de Cepas Viejas, Spain: Vintages Wine Panel: Juan Gil is a specialist with the Monastrell variety. This grape – also known by its French name, Mourvèdre – is thought to have originated in Spain, where select producers use it to produce intense, deeply coloured varietal wines. Here is a great example from Spain’s Jumilla region. The wine spends four months in a mix of French and American oak, adding toast and coconut accents to the floral, red fruit, and earthy aromas and flavours. Try it with mushroom and wild rice dishes, or savoury meat stews. My note: Purply, brambly greatness! Lip-smacking delicious: full-bodied with wondrously long flavor persistence (yes they’ll chase you).  13656  15%  XD  750 mL  $15.95  Score: 89/100. December 5, 2009 Best Value Red Wine.  Full Review