Catena Zapata

Catena Zapata is a legendary winery in Mendoza, Argentina, renowned for pioneering high-altitude viticulture and producing exceptional Malbec. Founded in 1902, Catena Zapata is celebrated for its innovative winemaking and wines that express the terroir of the Andes.

 
Argentina
94 Wines & Spirits
Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021
The Catena Chardonnay is a finely crafted wine that showcases the unique terroirs of Mendoza's high-altitude vineyards, delivering a harmonious blend of rich textures and vibrant acidity.
Catena Chardonnay 2021
20,50 €
Argentina
91 James Suckling
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec is a distinguished Argentine Malbec, crafted from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza. Known for its depth and complexity, this wine exemplifies the best characteristics of Malbec from this renowned producer.
Catena Malbec 2021
22,90 €
Argentina
92 Robert Parker
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Alta Chardonnay is a high-altitude Chardonnay from Mendoza, Argentina, offering elegance and complexity shaped by the unique Adrianna and Domingo vineyards, renowned for their distinct terroir at nearly 1,500 meters.
Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
31,50 €

History of Catena Zapata Estate

Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena, Catena Zapata has been a family-owned winery for over a century. The estate saw significant evolution under the leadership of Nicola’s grandson, Nicolás Catena Zapata, who joined the family business in the early 1980s.

Nicolás Catena's vision was instrumental in transforming the Argentinian wine industry. His focus on high-altitude viticulture, particularly in the Andean foothills, has been a key factor in achieving the unique expression of Mendoza's wines.

Nicolás Catena’s daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, a Harvard and Stanford-trained biologist and physician, joined the winery in the 1990s. She has continued her father's legacy, emphasizing scientific research and sustainable practices. Under her guidance, Catena Zapata has been at the forefront of vineyard research, studying the effects of altitude, climate, and soil on wine quality.

Region and Vineyards

Catena Zapata is located in the Mendoza region, specifically in the sub-regions of Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. The vineyards are planted at elevations ranging from 920 meters (3,020 feet) to 1,450 meters (4,757 feet) above sea level. The high-altitude vineyards provide a unique microclimate with significant diurnal temperature variations, which contribute to the grapes' complex flavors and balanced acidity.

The estate’s top vineyards include:

  • Adrianna Vineyard: Located at 1,450 meters, this is one of the highest vineyards in Mendoza and is renowned for producing exceptional Chardonnay and Malbec.
  • Nicasia Vineyard: Situated at 1,095 meters in the Altamira district of the Uco Valley, known for its Malbec and Cabernet Franc.
  • La Pirámide Vineyard: Found at 950 meters in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, this vineyard is celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wine Range

Catena Zapata offers a diverse range of wines, showcasing the rich variety of Mendoza’s terroir. The portfolio includes:

  • Catena Alta: High-quality varietal wines representing the best of the estate's vineyards.
  • Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard: Single-vineyard wines from the prestigious Adrianna Vineyard, including the iconic "White Bones" and "White Stones" Chardonnay.
  • Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino: A flagship Malbec that exemplifies the winery’s dedication to high-altitude viticulture.
  • Nicolás Catena Zapata: The winery’s flagship Bordeaux-style blend, which has gained international acclaim.

Did you know?

Catena Zapata was the first winery in Argentina to receive a 100-point score from a major wine publication, awarded by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate for the 2016 Adrianna Vineyard "River" Malbec.