Catena Zapata Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Region and Vineyards

This wine hails from Mendoza, Argentina, and is crafted from grapes grown in three high-altitude vineyards in the Uco Valley. Specifically, the grapes come from Block 3 of La Pirámide Vineyard in Agrelo (3,117 feet), Block 2 of Domingo Vineyard in Villa Bastías, Tupungato (3,675 feet), and Block 2 of Nicasia Vineyard in Altamira, San Carlos. These vineyards benefit from the unique microclimates and altitudes, which contribute to the complexity and depth of the wine.

Winemaking

The 2019 vintage blends 90% Cabernet Sauvignon with 10% Cabernet Franc. The fermentation process takes place in barriques and barrels, lasting between 16 to 35 days, with punchdown maceration for 30 days. The wine is then aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 50% of which are new. This ageing process enhances the wine's structure and integrates the tannins beautifully.

Did you know ?

The Catena family, pioneers of high-altitude viticulture in Mendoza, has been producing wine for over a century. Their innovative practices have significantly elevated the region's winemaking standards.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep, vibrant ruby.
• Aroma: The nose offers a complex bouquet of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and cassis, intertwined with notes of tobacco, cedar, and a hint of graphite.
• Palate: On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, with rich flavors of dark fruits complemented by layers of spices and well-integrated oak. The tannins are firm yet silky, leading to a long and elegant finish.

Wine Pairing Ideas

This wine pairs exceptionally well with grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops, or roast beef. It also complements aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda and rich pasta dishes with meat sauce or hearty stews.

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.