Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Catena Zapata estate sources its Chardonnay grapes from three distinguished vineyards in the Mendoza region: Domingo, La Pirámide, and Adrianna. These vineyards are located at elevations ranging from 950 to 1450 meters above sea level, benefiting from the cooler temperatures and greater diurnal temperature variations essential for developing complex flavors and maintaining acidity in the grapes.

The soils in these vineyards are predominantly gravel and stony, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine's mineral character. The vines are trained using the Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) system, optimizing sunlight exposure and air circulation. With a vine density of 2,200 vines per acre and a yield of 2.5-3 tons per acre, the focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring each grape contributes to the wine's concentrated flavors.

Winemaking

The Catena Chardonnay is composed of 100% Chardonnay. The grapes are hand-harvested between March and April to ensure optimal ripeness. Fermentation occurs in a combination of barrels and stainless steel tanks, with the temperature carefully controlled to preserve the wine's aromatic complexity. Batonnage is employed to enhance texture, and partial malolactic fermentation adds a layer of richness.

The wine is aged for 10 months in 225-liter barriques, with new to two-year-old French oak contributing subtle vanilla notes and structure. After aging in barrels, the wine undergoes an additional 12 months of bottle aging to achieve perfect balance and integration of flavors.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Intense greenish with yellow notes.
• Aroma: The nose reveals a bouquet of honey and tropical fruit flavors, complemented by notes of citrus, pears, peaches, and white flowers, all underscored by strong minerality and a delicate hint of vanilla.
• Palate: The mouthfeel is clean and vibrant, with fresh acidity providing a crisp and refreshing finish. Layers of tropical fruits and stone fruits are interwoven with a subtle mineral undertone, creating a well-balanced and complex wine.

Did you know?

The Catena family has been cultivating vines in Mendoza's foothills for over four generations. The Adrianna Vineyard, often referred to as the "Grand Cru" of South America, produces grapes with lively floral notes and pronounced minerality, contributing significantly to the unique character of the Catena Chardonnay.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Roast Chicken with Herbs: The wine's fresh acidity and rich texture complement the savory flavors of the roasted chicken, enhancing the dish's overall profile.
• Lobster with Nantua Sauce: The wine's minerality and tropical fruit flavors balance the richness of the lobster and the creamy sauce.
• Shrimp and Herb Risotto: The vibrant acidity and delicate notes of vanilla in the wine pair wonderfully with the creamy risotto and the herbal accents.
• Seared Scallops with Citrus Butter: The wine's citrus notes and fresh acidity complement the buttery scallops, creating a harmonious and luxurious 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.