Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Adrianna and Domingo vineyards in Mendoza’s Uco Valley are among Argentina's premier high-altitude sites. The Adrianna Vineyard, at nearly 1,500 meters (4,757 feet), is covered in pebble-strewn soils with calcareous deposits, providing an ideal cool climate for Chardonnay. The Domingo Vineyard lies slightly lower at 1,120 meters (3,675 feet), where sandy loam soils offer balanced acidity and vibrant white stone fruit character. Both vineyards benefit from intense sunlight and cool nighttime temperatures, which enhance the wine’s structure and acidity while concentrating flavors.

Originally planted in the 1990s, these vineyards have been continuously studied by the Catena Institute, identifying each lot’s specific potential for Chardonnay. The Adrianna Vineyard, in particular, produces grapes with a purity and minerality unique to its high-altitude, calcareous-rich soils.

Winemaking

The Catena Alta Chardonnay is made entirely from Dijon Clonal Selection Chardonnay. Grapes are hand-harvested from select lots, followed by whole-cluster pressing and a meticulous fermentation in French oak barrels. 45% of these barrels are new, and the wine undergoes 50 days of alcoholic fermentation with aggressive bâtonnage to develop texture and complexity. A full malolactic fermentation softens acidity, while the wine is then aged for 14 months in French oak barriques to enhance integration and depth.

With an alcohol content of 13.6%, a pH of 3.2, and a total acidity of 6.95 g/L, this Chardonnay achieves a harmonious balance of freshness and richness.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Intense greenish-yellow, reflecting its freshness and vibrancy.
• Aroma: Aromas of ripe pear, peach, and delicate citrus, accompanied by floral notes of jasmine and subtle mineral undertones.
• Palate: Rich and concentrated, with flavors of ripe pear, apple, and apricot, along with a light, mineral edge. The finish is long, complex, and marked by crisp, mineral-driven acidity.

Did you know?

The Catena Alta Chardonnay was one of the pioneering premium Chardonnays in Argentina, crafted from the Catena family’s focus on high-altitude viticulture. The name “Alta” reflects the exceptional elevation of these vineyards, where careful vine management and selection result in a Chardonnay that captures Mendoza’s unique, high-altitude terroir.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Lime Marinated Chicken: The wine’s vibrant acidity and rich stone fruit notes enhance the citrus flavors and freshness of marinated chicken.
• Grilled Scallops with Herb Butter: The creamy texture and minerality of the wine complement the sweetness of scallops, while its acidity balances the richness of herb butter.
• Pasta Primavera with Asparagus and Parmesan: The wine’s crisp acidity and mineral finish harmonize with the earthy asparagus and nutty Parmesan, enhancing each bite.
• Sea Bass with Lemon and Thyme: The fresh flavors of lemon and thyme resonate with the wine’s citrus notes and minerality, making for a refined pairing.

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.