Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2022

Region and Vineyards

The Catena Malbec 2022 is a blend sourced from three distinct high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina, each contributing unique characteristics due to elevation and soil variation. The region benefits from an exceptional combination of abundant sunlight, low humidity, and wide diurnal temperature ranges, which ensures slow ripening and aromatic intensity. The vineyards, all of alluvial origin, span a dramatic elevation gradient that ranges from 920 metres in Lunlunta to 1,450 metres in Gualtallary.

Lunlunta, at 920 metres, brings supple texture and ripe fruit from its loamy clay soils underlain by rounded stones. El Cepillo in Eugenio Bustos (1,090 metres) offers freshness and chalky tension from its loam-sandy soils with calcareous deposits. Gualtallary, perched at 1,450 metres, contributes backbone and minerality from gravelly limestone soils. This diversity of terroir allows the Catena family, under the guidance of Laura Catena and winemaker Alejandro Vigil, to craft a harmonious, site-expressive wine that captures the soul of the Andes.

Winemaking

The 2022 vintage began with a five-day cold maceration at 10°C to preserve delicate aromas and amplify fruit character. Fermentation followed over 10-16 days, using indigenous yeasts, with total maceration lasting 19-22 days to extract deep colour and refined tannins. This approach enhances varietal purity while allowing for texture and structure to build naturally.

The wine was aged for 11-13 months in French oak barrels, including first, second, and third-use barrels, depending on the vineyard lot. This judicious use of oak adds complexity without overwhelming the wine's freshness. The 2022 vintage was considered exceptional by the winemaking team, offering ideal conditions despite climatic challenges—what Alejandro Vigil described as "the best year I have lived through."

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep violet with ruby edges, almost opaque at the core.
• Aroma: Intense notes of blackberries, cassis, and ripe plum mingle with floral hints of violets, underpinned by graphite, baking spices, and a subtle earthy touch.
• Palate: Full-bodied and vibrant, with finely-grained tannins framing layers of dark fruit, cocoa, and licorice. A persistent mineral edge adds lift, leading to a long, elegant finish with fresh acidity and great ageing potential.

Did you know?

The Catena family was among the first to explore extreme-altitude viticulture in Mendoza, challenging conventional wisdom and unlocking new levels of freshness and complexity in Malbec. Their research into terroir-specific parcels led to a dramatic redefinition of Argentine wine quality in the global market. The 2022 Catena Malbec is not only a blend of vineyards, but also a synthesis of decades of pioneering viticultural study in the Andes.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Argentine ribeye with chimichurri - the wine's tannins and dark fruit match beautifully with smoky, charred meat and herbaceous sauces.
• Wild mushroom risotto - earthy and umami-driven, this dish complements the wine's mineral tension and soft floral notes.
• Smoked duck breast with blackberry glaze - the richness of duck harmonizes with the wine's structure and berry profile.
• Roasted aubergine with tahini and pomegranate - a vegetarian pairing that echoes the wine's vibrant acidity and spice.

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.