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 Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2019 The Catena Alta Malbec is a testament to the Catena family's dedication to producing world-class wines, featuring rich, layered flavors and elegant tannins from meticulously selected vineyard lots. Catena Alta Malbec 2019 50,90 €	Argentina Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec 2019 From high altitude vineyards, Catena produce this aromatic wine full of ripe black fruits, sweet spices and thyme. The palate is packed full of dark berries, liquorice and bitter chocolate. Nicasia Malbec 2019 82,00 €	Argentina Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021 Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021 is a highly regarded Malbec from the Mendoza region of Argentina, crafted with meticulous care from the finest lots of the Catena family's estate vineyards. Argentino Malbec 2021 99,00 €	Argentina Catena Zapata Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019 The Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae is a remarkable Malbec that embodies the unique terroir of the high-altitude Adrianna Vineyard, delivering exceptional elegance and depth. Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019 109,90 €	Argentina Catena Zapata River Malbec 2020 Sourced from the River sector of Adrianna Vineyard, at an elevation of 1,372 meters (4,500 feet), this wine captures Mendoza’s vibrant acidity, minerality, and concentrated aromas, making it a hallmark of high-altitude winemaking. River Malbec 2020 175,00 €
Argentina Catena Zapata Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae is a powerful, high-altitude Malbec sourced from the iconic Adrianna Vineyard, renowned for its mineral complexity and structured elegance. Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020 265,00 €

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.