The Monastrell grape is gradually becoming a major grape on the Iberian Peninsula. This success definitively ends the perennial reign of Tempranillo and Garnacha, as Monastrell dominates more and more vineyards. Monastrell is the Spanish equivalent of the French Mourvedre, a grape primarily found in the southern half of France. In recent decades, Monastrell has also begun making significant inroads into Spanish vineyards. Especially in the Jumilla region, a wine enclave near Murcia, Monastrell has produced some of the finest wines. Although Jumilla only recently received an official classification from the government, the winery behind Cambil Bay Monastrell has been active in these regions for over 150 years.
The driving force behind Cambil Bay Monastrell is the exciting winery Bodegas Bellavista, a leading force in Jumilla wines. Since 1870, they have been producing wine from the epicenter of Jumilla, making them one of the oldest wineries in this Spanish wine region. Because the vineyards in Jumilla are situated at altitudes up to 950 meters, all the necessary factors for successful wines are present; this is precisely why Monastrell thrives. During the day, it receives ample sunshine, while at night, the bountiful bunches enjoy the fresh Mediterranean breeze.
