Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard River Malbec 2022

Region and Vineyards

Perched in the Andean foothills southwest of Mendoza city, the Uco Valley is defined by high elevation, arid conditions, abundant sunshine, and wide diurnal swings. These factors slow sugar accumulation, preserve natural acidity, and concentrate aroma while allowing full phenolic ripeness—key to the finesse and tension seen in the best high-altitude Malbec. Within Uco, Tupungato's Gualtallary sub-zone has emerged as a beacon for stony, limestone-influenced soils and piercing, aromatic styles.

The Adrianna Vineyard (planted 1992) sits near 1,450 m and is parcelled by soil mapping to isolate distinctive terroirs. River is a narrow strip along an ancient riverbed, its oval white stones limestone-dusted, providing excellent drainage and temperature moderation. The site's extreme light and cool nights yield concentrated fruit, floral lift, and refined tannins. Farming is meticulous and research-driven; Adrianna is often called one of the world's most studied vineyards, with extensive biodiversity initiatives and long-term climate-soil work led by the Catena Institute.

Winemaking

River is 100% Malbec. Grapes undergo an extensive cold maceration (typically 5-10 days at <10 °C) with 60-80% whole clusters to enhance perfume and retain freshness. Primary fermentation runs roughly 12-22 days with wild yeasts, followed by a total maceration of around 10-15 days. Extraction is gentle to preserve aromatic clarity and the parcel's mineral signature. Full malolactic fermentation follows naturally.

Élevage lasts 18-21 months in seasoned French oak (including 2,200 L foudres >10 years old) to frame, not mask, fruit and terroir. Lots are kept separate by parcel before a final, small-volume blend. Bottling precedes additional bottle rest for composure. Typical annual output is about 4,800 bottles, underscoring its micro-parcel status within Adrianna.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby-purple with blue-violet hues; youthful saturation and lively rim.
• Aroma: Violets, black cherry and blueberry, hints of blackberry leaf, graphite, cracked pepper, and a cool stony accent reminiscent of wet river stones.
• Palate: Medium-plus body with taut, vertical acidity; ultra-fine, long-chained tannins; concentrated dark fruit framed by floral lift and saline-mineral drive; finishes lengthy, pure, and impeccably balanced.

Did you know?

Adrianna is described as one of the most studied vineyards in the world. The Catena Institute has published dozens of peer-reviewed papers on its ecology; 44 nesting boxes support native birds and 39% of the land remains in virgin state—an unusual biodiversity commitment in elite viticulture.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Patagonian lamb with herbs: savory depth and char resonate with the wine's dark fruit and fine tannins; acidity refreshes the palate.
• Beef tenderloin with chimichurri: bright herbs and spice mirror floral lift and mineral tension while the cut's tenderness suits the silky texture.
• Mushroom and truffle risotto: umami and cream echo Malbec's richness; stony salinity and acidity keep the finish precise.
• Cocoa-rubbed duck breast: subtle cacao and berry tones dovetail with the wine's blue-black fruit and gentle spice.

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.