Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2022

Region and Vineyards

Mendoza's vast plateau, nestled against the Andean precordillera, offers intense sunlight, low rainfall and dramatic diurnal swings—conditions that coax Malbec to aromatic lift and fine-grained tannins. Catena cultivates Malbec in two complementary districts: Lulunta in Maipú, lower and slightly warmer, and Paraje Altamira in San Carlos (Uco Valley), higher, cooler and rock-strewn. Together they yield fruit that is both generous and sinewy, with floral top notes and a graphite-tinged spine.

Malbec Argentino 2022 blends grapes from Angélica Vineyard (Lulunta) and Nicasia Vineyard (Paraje Altamira), at roughly 920-1,095 metres elevation (3,018-3,593 ft). Soils range from sand and gravel to stony and clay-loam, and plant material derives from pre-phylloxera massal selections, harvested parcel by parcel at optimal maturity. Vine density averages ~2,200 vines/acre with low yields around 1.2 tons/acre, enhancing concentration and natural balance.

Winemaking

The 2022 is 100% Malbec. Fermentation is split between vertical open barriques and small stainless-steel tanks, with manual punch-downs over 30-32 days at 28-30 °C (82-86 °F) to extract fine tannins and preserve floral lift. Full malolactic fermentation follows.

Élevage is emphatically Bordelais in scale yet precise in intent: 24 months in 100% new French oak (225 L barriques), followed by 12-18 months of bottle aging before release. The finished wine sits at 13.8% alcohol, pH 3.6, total acidity 6.1 g/L, and 2.65 g/L residual sugar—figures that underscore the wine's supple texture and vibrant line.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep purple-crimson with an opaque core and vivid violet rim.
• Aroma: Fresh violets, blackberry and blueberry compote, black plum, subtle licorice and baking spice, with graphite, cocoa nib and a whisper of vanilla.
• Palate: Plush yet poised; dense black fruits and wild blueberry glide over silken, chalk-tinged tannins. Mid-palate breadth is framed by lively acidity; long, savory finish layered with cocoa, clove and mineral lift.

Did you know?

The striking label narrates Malbec's journey: four female figures personify key milestones—from Eleanor of Aquitaine and Cahors' medieval prowess to the grape's renaissance in Argentina—linking Old World heritage to New World glory.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Fire-grilled ribeye with chimichurri: Char and herbaceous lift mirror the wine's smoky spice and floral freshness; ample protein softens tannins.
• Duck breast with blackberry jus: Dark fruit echoes the sauce while bright acidity cuts through richness.
• Wild mushroom risotto: Umami depth and creamy texture complement cocoa, graphite tones and polished oak.
• Aged Manchego or Comté: Nutty, firm cheeses match structure and draw out savory spice on the finish.

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.