Mano Mona Monastrell 2021
Classic Movie Pairing
The Good Guys and The Bad Guys (1969)A classic Western comedy starring Robert Mitchum and George Kennedy, the plot follows an aging sheriff (Mitchum), who teams up with a notorious outlaw (Kennedy) to defend a town from a band of ruthless outlaws. Monastrell perfectly captures the ruggedness of the film. Born out of old growth vines cooled by sea breezes, this wine is as complex and satisfying as the film’s mix of thrills and humor.
THE WINE
Carlos Rubén, aka “the walking winemaker,” searched throughout southeastern Spain to find the best Monastrell grapes for Mano Mona 2021. And as you’ll taste, his efforts have paid off deliciously. Mano Mona was rated 90 points by the International Wine Report. Judges wrote: “The 2021 Monastrell begins with aromatics of cherries and raspberries followed by nuances of spices, candied florals, herbs and wet stones all taking shape in the glass. The body gives way to red and dark fruit flavors that are framed by lovely acidity adding freshness and lift through the fresh finish.”
Key to that freshness is the vineyards. Carlos selected the Monastrell from vines grown at high altitudes, where cooler nighttime temperatures help keep fruit fresh. Most of the grapes also come from the Jumilla region, which benefits from cooling Mediterranean breezes that preserve vibrant flavors. Oh, and did we mention, all the grapes were organically grown, so you can feel good about drinking this delicious red wine.
THE REGION
Jumilla (in the desert-like Murcia region of southeast Spain) is one of the few places in Europe to have seriously old plantings of Monastrell. Called Mourvèdre in French, the region’s reds are often compared to France’s famously rich, and pricey, Bandol reds. Quality in Jumilla has improved dramatically of late, with winemakers producing wines that display Monastrell’s unique earthy spiciness.
WITH FOOD
When it comes to a smooth Spanish red like Mano Mona, you can’t go wrong with lamb. Try slow-roasted leg of lamb and potatoes or lamb chops topped with aioli sauce, rosemary and garlic. It’ll also be tasty with classic Spanish tapas (think cured meats, olives and hard cheeses). Vegetarian? Try grilled portobello mushrooms or simple rice and beans.
What's Not to Love?
TCM Wine Club brings the magic of movies and wine together - all delivered right to your door. Your first case includes 12 delicious wines from around the world expertly paired with the classic films you love on TCM. Plus, enjoy our 3 BONUS CLASSIC MOVIE WINES!