Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2023

Region and Vineyards

Catena Alta Malbec 2023 brings together selected historic rows across Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley from five estate parcels. Elevations rise from 920 metres at Angélica in Maipú to 1,450 metres at Adrianna in Tupungato, with La Pirámide in Agrelo, Nicasia in Paraje Altamira and Angélica Sur in San Carlos completing the mosaic. The altitude range helps preserve freshness while building aromatic intensity and textural depth.

Each parcel contributes a distinct soil profile: stony alluvial loamy clay at Angélica, clay and stones at La Pirámide, alluvium at Nicasia, and combinations of sandy loam, gravel and limestone at Angélica Sur and Adrianna. Mendoza's abundant light, elevation and pronounced site differences frame a nuanced expression of Malbec. In 2023, spring frost and low yields were followed by a relatively dry, slightly warmer season and an earlier harvest, contributing freshness and mineral tension alongside refined structure.

Winemaking

Made entirely from Malbec, Catena Alta begins with proprietary Catena Cuttings selected through the family's vineyard research and grown in chosen historic rows. Harvest timing is tailored to each parcel, allowing fruit from the five sites to be picked according to its own ripening pattern. The lots remain separate through vinification so that their individual character can be retained.

Whole berries are handled gently and fermented in small lots with native yeasts. The wine completes full malolactic fermentation, then matures in French oak of varying previous uses, integrating spice and texture without obscuring the fruit. Bringing the parcels together creates a layered expression: darker fruit and breadth are balanced by floral lift, vivid acidity, fine tannins and mineral definition. The result is a polished, age-worthy Malbec that combines depth with the energetic profile of the 2023 season.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby-purple with vivid violet reflections.
• Aroma: Fragrant violets rise above cassis, blackberry and plum, followed by licorice, fine herbs, black pepper, vanilla and a subtle leathery nuance.
• Palate: Juicy dark and red fruits are carried by vivid acidity and sleek, finely grained tannins. Mineral definition and restrained oak bring tension and complexity, leading to a silky, energetic and sustained finish.

Did You Know?

Catena Alta is not conceived as a single-vineyard wine. It is a meticulous assembly of historic rows from elevations separated by more than 500 metres. The estate's proprietary Catena Cuttings connect this cuvée to the family's long-running study of how Malbec responds to Mendoza's diverse high-altitude terroirs.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Herb-crusted rack of lamb: The wine's dark fruit and fine tannins complement the lamb's richness, while its herbal and peppery notes echo the savoury crust.
• Chargrilled rib-eye steak: Generous fruit and polished structure meet the intensity of grilled beef, with vivid acidity refreshing the palate.
• Wild mushroom and thyme risotto: Earthy mushrooms draw out the wine's mineral, leathery and herbal nuances, while the creamy texture softens its tannins.
• Aged Manchego: The cheese's nutty, savoury depth pairs naturally with the Malbec's concentrated fruit, subtle oak and sustained 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.