Catena Zapata Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019

Region and Vineyards

The Adrianna Vineyard, named after Nicolás Catena Zapata’s youngest daughter, is situated at an elevation of 4,400 feet in Mendoza, Argentina. This high altitude ensures cooler temperatures and greater diurnal temperature variations, which are crucial for developing the grapes' complexity and preserving their acidity. The vineyard spans 296 hectares and is characterized by its calcareous and silty-loam soils, which contribute to the wine's distinctive minerality and structure.

The vines are trained using the Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) system, optimizing sunlight exposure and air circulation. With a vine density of 1,800 vines per acre and exposure to the northwest, the vineyard benefits from optimal sun exposure, which enhances the ripening process. Planted in 1992, the Adrianna Vineyard has become renowned for producing some of the finest Malbecs in the world, thanks to its unique terroir and meticulous vineyard management.

Winemaking

The Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae is composed of 100% Malbec. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested to ensure only the best fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in barriques over a period of 16 days at temperatures ranging from 25-30°C. Manual punching down is employed during the 8-12 day maceration period to enhance flavor extraction.

Full malolactic fermentation occurs in a combination of barriques and barrels of various sizes (225 L, 500 L, 2200 L), all made from French oak, with the containers aged for two years. The wine undergoes 24 months of aging in these barrels, followed by an additional 24 months of bottle aging before release, ensuring a well-integrated and balanced profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep and intense.
• Aroma: Very aromatic with spicy black fruit, offering complex layers of blackberries, black cherries, and plums, accented by hints of spice and floral notes.
• Palate: The mouthfeel is rounded and smooth, with moderate acidity providing balance. Rich flavors of black fruits are interwoven with a subtle mineral undertone, creating a well-balanced and complex wine. The finish is long and elegant, showcasing the wine’s aging potential.

Did you know?

Fortuna Terrae, meaning "luck of the land" in Latin, refers to the fortunate conditions of this specific parcel within the Adrianna Vineyard. The loamy soils are home to various native grasses that prevent erosion and attract beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife, contributing to a healthy vineyard ecosystem. The high altitude and deep soils impart freshness and delicate flower aromas to the wines, making them ideal for long-term aging.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Meat: The wine’s rich fruit flavors and smooth tannins complement the savory and smoky profile of grilled meats, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Roast Lamb with Rosemary: The robust structure and spicy notes of the wine pair beautifully with the earthy and herbal flavors of roast lamb.
• Mushroom Risotto: The wine’s minerality and complexity harmonize with the creamy and earthy elements of a mushroom risotto, creating a luxurious pairing.
• Aged Cheddar: The wine’s depth and smooth finish balance the sharp, tangy flavors of aged cheddar, making for an elegant cheese course.

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.