Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021

Region and Vineyards

This wine originates from two distinguished vineyards: the Angelica Vineyard in the Lulunta district and the Nicasia Vineyard in the Altamira district of Mendoza. These vineyards are located at elevations ranging from 3,018 to 3,593 feet, which provides a unique microclimate favorable for growing high-quality Malbec.

The soil composition includes sand, gravel, stony, and clay-loam, contributing to the complexity and minerality of the wine.

The vines, planted between 1992 and 1996, are trained using the Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) method and produce low yields of approximately 1.2 tons per acre, ensuring concentrated flavors in the grapes.

Winemaking

Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec is made from 100% Malbec grapes. The grapes undergo fermentation in a combination of vertical open barriques and small stainless steel tanks for 30-32 days at temperatures between 82.4 - 86°F. Manual punching down is used for maceration. After alcoholic fermentation, malolactic fermentation occurs, followed by aging in 225-liter new French oak barriques for 24 months. The wine is then bottle-aged for an additional 12 to 18 months, allowing it to develop further complexity and integration.

Fun Fact

Catena Zapata is renowned for pioneering high-altitude viticulture in Argentina, significantly influencing the quality and style of Argentine wines.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Saturated dark violet with ruby reflections.
• Aroma: The nose reveals enticing aromas of cassis, blueberries, and violets, with earthy undertones.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is dense and sweet, with gripping, lightly saline flavors of mocha, dark berries, spice, and minerals. It has a palate-staining finish dominated by sweet black and blue fruits.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Lamb chops
• Beef tenderloin
• Goat cheese

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.