March can be a mixed bag for Southerners, warming up toward springtime some days and still quite wintry on others. So what better time to try a vino fit for in between the seasons? This beautiful Parajes del Valle Monastrell is made from — and named for — a delicate red-skinned grape known as the Monastrell, also called mourvèdre in the fruit's native land of Jumilla, Spain. The winemaker, 28-year-old Maria Jover, has created elegantly drinkable wines crafted from 40-year-old organic grape vines.
According to Classic Wine Company owner Josh Terrell, Parajes del Valle Monastrell is aged to perfection inside neutral oak and concrete barrels to ensure it arrives bright on the palate with hints of mineral. He suggests chilling this red lightly in the fridge and sipping it leisurely on a late winter or early spring day; it is ideal for pairing with firm cheeses and charcuterie for a happy hour or hearty appetizers for a casual dinner party.
Despite its exceptional heritage, Parajes del Valle Monastrell is priced at just $18 per bottle and is available at Classic Wine Company.