mataro: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowSpecialist/Technical
Quick answer
What does “mataro” mean?
A traditional Portuguese wine-making grape variety.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A traditional Portuguese wine-making grape variety.
The red wine produced from the Mataro grape (also known as Monastrell/Mourvèdre). The word can refer to the grape, the wine style, or the general category of robust, dark red wines made from this variety.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both use the term identically within specialist circles. The synonym 'Mourvèdre' is perhaps slightly more common in UK wine writing, while 'Mataro' has historical usage in Australia and the US (California).
Connotations
Conveys a sense of historical or regional wine style. May imply a robust, sometimes rustic wine profile.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general language. Frequency is equal (and very low) in both varieties when used in appropriate technical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “mataro” in a Sentence
Mataro (is grown/blended/produced) in [region]a wine made from MataroMataro, also known as MourvèdreVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mataro” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The winery is known for its Mataro-dominant blend.
- It has a distinct Mataro character.
American English
- We tasted a Mataro-based wine from Paso Robles.
- The Mataro component adds structure.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In wine import/export or vineyard management.
Academic
In papers on viticulture, ampelography (study of grapes), or oenology.
Everyday
Virtually never used. Might be encountered on a restaurant wine list or at a specialised wine tasting.
Technical
Primary context. Used to specify a grape cultivar in vineyard logs, wine production notes, and tasting reviews.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mataro”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “mataro”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mataro”
- Pronouncing it /ˈmætəroʊ/ (with a short 'a' like in 'mat').
- Using it as a general term for any red wine.
- Misspelling as 'Mattaro' or 'Matarow'.
- Assuming it's a place name or a brand.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'Mataro' and 'Mourvèdre' are synonyms for the same red grape variety (Vitis vinifera). 'Monastrell' is its common Spanish name.
Historically in Spain (as Monastrell), southern France (as Mourvèdre), and now significantly in Australia, California, and South Africa.
It is highly unlikely to be understood outside of a wine-specific context. Using 'red wine' or the more common name 'Mourvèdre' (on a wine list) is advisable.
It typically produces full-bodied wines with high tannins and alcohol, featuring flavours of dark berries, black pepper, leather, and earthy notes.
A traditional Portuguese wine-making grape variety.
Mataro is usually specialist/technical in register.
Mataro: in British English it is pronounced /məˈtɑːrəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /məˈtɑːroʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. Term is too technical for idiomatic use.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'MATerially A RO bust wine' - Mataro is a grape that makes a robust wine.
Conceptual Metaphor
HERITAGE/ORIGIN as IDENTITY (e.g., 'This wine carries its Mataro heritage boldly').
Practice
Quiz
What is 'Mataro' most accurately described as?