Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021

Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021

 

Zoom Mouse over image to zoom
Catena Zapata
Argentino Malbec 2021
  • Vintage : 2021
  • Country : Argentina
  • Region : Mendoza
  • Subregion :
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Deep Full Bodied
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 14°
  • Grappes : 100% Malbec

Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino is a flagship Argentine Malbec, paying tribute to the grape's journey from Cahors, France, to its rebirth in Argentina, where it found its ultimate expression.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 96 2021
JS James Suckling 96 2021
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 95 2021
TA Tim Atkin 94 2021
WS Wine Spectator 93 2021
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

This Malbec is sourced from two of Catena Zapata’s legendary vineyards, located in the renowned Mendoza region:

  • Angélica Vineyard (Lulunta district): Situated at 920 meters (3,018 feet) above sea level, this site features sandy loam soils that contribute freshness and floral notes to the wine.
  • Nicasia Vineyard (Altamira district): Located at a higher altitude of 1,095 meters (3,593 feet), the gravelly and clay-loam soils deliver structure, minerality, and exceptional depth.

The altitude and soil compositions of these vineyards allow for slow ripening, preserving the grapes' acidity and intensifying their aromatic complexity. With low yields of 1.2 tons per acre, the vines produce fruit of outstanding concentration and character.

These high-altitude sites reflect the Catena family’s pioneering vision of creating wines that express Mendoza’s unique terroir while standing alongside the world's best.

Winemaking

The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino is crafted with precision and care, combining traditional techniques with modern innovations to express the purity and power of Malbec.

The wine is made from 100% Malbec, with grapes hand-harvested and carefully sorted. The fermentation takes place in a mix of vertical open barriques and small stainless-steel tanks over a period of 30-32 days, at temperatures between 28°C and 30°C. Manual punch-downs ensure a gentle extraction of color, tannins, and flavor while preserving the wine’s finesse.

Post-fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation to soften the acidity and enhance its creamy texture. The aging process is conducted in 100% new French oak barriques (225L) for 24 months, followed by an additional 12-18 months of bottle aging. This meticulous élevage results in a wine of depth, structure, and refinement, with perfectly integrated oak influence.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Deep violet with bright garnet reflections.
  • Aroma: Intense and layered, with aromas of cassis, blackberries, and subtle notes of earth. Floral hints of violets intermingle with accents of mocha and spice.
  • Palate: Rich and full-bodied, offering flavors of dark berries, mocha, and black plum, underscored by a refined minerality and delicate saline nuances. Velvety tannins provide structure and finesse, leading to a long, complex finish with lingering spice and fruit notes.

Did You Know?

The label of Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino pays homage to the grape’s epic journey. It features four female figures representing key milestones in Malbec’s history:

  • Eleanor of Aquitaine – The Old World beginnings of Malbec in Cahors.
  • The Immigrant – The movement of Malbec to the New World.
  • Madame Phylloxera – The devastation of Malbec in France by phylloxera.
  • Catena Zapata – The rebirth of Malbec in Argentina, embodied by Adrianna Catena, symbolizing the richness and promise of the New World.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Côte de bœuf grillée : La richesse et les tannins veloutés du vin équilibrent parfaitement la jutosité et la profondeur de la viande.
  • Agneau rôti aux herbes provençales : Les saveurs herbacées et savoureuses de l’agneau subliment les notes épicées et fruitées du Malbec.
  • Empanadas de bœuf épicé : Les nuances de fruits noirs et d’épices se marient à la perfection avec ce plat argentin traditionnel.
  • Fromage Manchego affiné : La texture crémeuse et salée du fromage trouve son équilibre dans la structure et la fraîcheur du vin.

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.

Robert Parker (RP) : 96 Points (2021)
The very young but already harmonious 2021 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino has one of the showier labels from the Catena portfolio. 2021 was a cooler year, as cold as 2016, but instead of a wet year like 2016, it was dry. The wine is juicy and reveals a vibrant palate and very clean and focused aromas and flavors. It's clean and precise with varietal aromas of violets, ripe berries and herbs and a spicy touch from the élevage in oak. It's another great vintage for this blend of grapes from the vineyards of Angélica (Lunlunta) and Nicasia (Altamira). It's nicely textured and tasty, medium to full-bodied and with a vibrant finish. 60,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2022. (LG) (11/2022)

James Suckling (JS) : 96 Points (2021)
A really well-balanced malbec here that is slightly spicier and richer. Black cherries, dark olives and some violets. Fleshy and almost full-bodied on the palate with juicy, naturally rendered fruit and very fine-grained tannins. Balance is the word. (2/2023)

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 95 Points (2021)
The 2021 Malbec Argentino harmoniously blends 50% Lulunta grapes with 50% Paraje Altamira. For those who recall the old style, characterized by a significant oak influence on the aromas, this vintage marks a pivotal moment. Half of the wine was aged for 16 months in foudres, while the other half matured in concrete vats. The outcome is a wine that leans more towards its primary characteristics. Displays a purple hue. The nose reveals notes of cherry, blackberry, orange peel, violets and cedar. It presents a dry and plush profile on the palate, with fine-grained tannins and a juicy flow that culminates in a lingering fruity finish, accompanied by a vibrant and refreshing sensation. (JH) (6/2023)

Tim Atkin (TA) : 94 Points (2021)
Argentino is a 50/50 blend of Malbecs from the Angélica Vineyard in Lunlunta and the Nicasia Vineyard in Paraje Altamira. Fermented with 45% whole bunches, it’s smooth, supple and well-appointed, showing bramble, raspberry and mulberry flavours, understated oak spices and supple, caressing tannins. 2024-29

Wine Spectator (WS) : 93 Points (2021)
A tad restrained at this stage, but shows a nice mix of floral and mineral notes that join the palate around a swell of chalky mineral acidity, adding fresh raspberry flavors, turning slightly muscular on the finish, with firming tannins and notes of dark chocolate. Drink now through 2033. 5,000 cases made, 2,500 cases imported.

Catena Zapata Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
JS
93
RP
93
Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished wine from Bodega Catena Zapata, exemplifying the richness and structure characteristic of high-altitude Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon.
47,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Malbec 2019
VN
95
JS
94
WS
91
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.
50,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata
Nicasia Malbec 2019
WS
93
RP
97
W&S
91
Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec is a refined and elegant single-vineyard Malbec, produced from meticulously selected vines in one of the Catena family’s historic vineyards.
82,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
JS
92
RP
92
WS
92
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.
31,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata
Catena Malbec 2021
RP
91
JS
91
W&S
90
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.
22,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata
Catena Chardonnay 2021
RP
92
W&S
94
JS
92
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.
20,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata 2019
Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata 2019
Catena Zapata
Nicolas Catena Zapata 2019
JS
98
VN
96
RP
96
The Catena Zapata Nicolás Catena Zapata is a premier expression of Argentine winemaking, blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc to showcase the finest characteristics of Mendoza's terroir. This wine continues the legacy of its inaugural 1997 vintage, which set new standards by triumphing in blind tastings against prestigious First Growth Bordeaux wines.
94,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
White Stones Chardonnay 2020
JS
97
DCT
95
VN
97
The White Stones Chardonnay from Catena Zapata is a fresh, mineral-driven Chardonnay with aromas of white flowers and stone fruit. Grown at 4,575 feet in the Adrianna Vineyard, this wine captures the essence of its stony, calcareous soils.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019
Catena Zapata Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019
Catena Zapata
Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019
JS
99
VN
95
WS
96
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.
109,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata River Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata River Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata
River Malbec 2020
WE
95
RP
97
WS
93
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.
175,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata
Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020
RP
97
JS
97
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.
260,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
White Bones Chardonnay 2020
RP
99
WE
94
VN
96
White Bones Chardonnay 2020 is a singular expression of the Adrianna Vineyard, combining vibrant citrus and white fruit flavors with a profound minerality, showcasing Mendoza’s high-altitude terroir.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
RP
92
JS
94
WS
92
Catena Alta Chardonnay is a premium Argentine Chardonnay that beautifully combines elegance, complexity, and minerality, reflecting the unique terroirs of high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza.
32,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2018
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2018
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Malbec 2018
WS
91
RP
93
WE
93
The Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2018 is an elegant, high-altitude expression of Malbec, offering a sophisticated depth that reflects Argentina's most historic vineyards.
49,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata
White Stones Chardonnay 2021
RP
98
WE
95
VN
97
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2021 is a masterpiece of high-altitude winemaking, offering a vivid expression of Mendoza’s Adrianna Vineyard. This wine shines with its precision, elegance, and pure mineral character.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
99,00 €
Quantity : Moins     Plus
 
 
We also suggest...
Argentina
91 Robert Parker
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
90 Robert Parker
Amalaya Corte Unico Finca San Isidro 2021
Amalaya Corte Unico Finca San Isidro 2021
The Amalaya Corte Único is the iconic wine of Bodega Amalaya, representing the pinnacle of what the northern region of Argentina has to offer. This bold, structured red blend is crafted from carefully selected grapes grown in the rocky, alluvial soils of Finca San Isidro, located in the heart of Salta.
Corte Unico Finca San Isidro 2021
32,90 €
Argentina
94 Robert Parker
Zuccardi Poligonos Malbec Gualtallary 2021
Zuccardi Poligonos Malbec Gualtallary 2021
Part of Zuccardi’s Polígonos series, this wine offers a nuanced expression of Gualtallary’s terroir, crafted to embody the unique landscape, climate, and soil diversity of the Andes.
Poligonos Malbec Gualtallary 2021
29,00 €
Australia
97 Wine Enthusiast
Clonakilla Canberra District Shiraz - Viognier 2019
Clonakilla Canberra District Shiraz - Viognier 2019
The Clonakilla Canberra District Shiraz Viognier is an iconic Australian blend that marries the depth of Shiraz with the aromatic lift of Viognier.
Canberra District Shiraz - Viognier 2019
115,00 €
Australia
95 Robert Parker
Two Hands Ares Shiraz 2019
Two Hands Ares Shiraz 2019
Two Hands Ares Shiraz 2019 is a bold and commanding expression of Barossa Valley Shiraz, crafted from the finest barrels to represent the pinnacle of the estate’s winemaking expertise.
Ares Shiraz 2019
125,00 €
Australia
96 Decanter
By Farr RP Geelong Pinot Noir 2021
By Farr RP Geelong Pinot Noir 2021
The By Farr RP Geelong Pinot Noir is a tribute to Robyn Pamela Farr, the matriarch of the Farr family. This wine reflects her dedication and contribution to the vineyard over the decades.
RP Geelong Pinot Noir 2021
86,90 €