Catena Zapata Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Adrianna Vineyard is situated in the Gualtallary district of the Uco Valley, Mendoza, at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), making it one of the world’s highest vineyard sites. Nicolás Catena pioneered this high-altitude viticulture, discovering that cooler temperatures at this elevation preserved natural acidity and enhanced polyphenols, while intense mountain sunlight strengthened tannins, creating wines with extraordinary complexity and ageability.

The soils of Adrianna are predominantly calcareous and silty-loam, scattered with ancient limestone and marine deposits. These limestone-rich layers are well-drained and support rhizobacteria that help vine roots endure the vineyard’s cold, arid conditions, enabling them to absorb essential nutrients. The Adrianna Vineyard is extensively studied, with significant efforts by the Catena Institute to monitor biodiversity, soil health, and climate patterns, making it one of the most scientifically documented vineyards in the world.

Winemaking

Mundus Bacillus Terrae is produced from a 1.4-hectare parcel within the Adrianna Vineyard. Grapes are harvested in the first week of April. The wine undergoes 16 days of alcoholic fermentation with pumpover maceration for an extended period of 8 to 13 days, followed by full malolactic fermentation to soften acidity. The wine is then aged for 24 months in a combination of 225-liter and 500-liter French oak barrels, followed by an additional 24 months of bottle aging to enhance complexity and integration.

This 100% Malbec has an alcohol content of 14%, characterized by its great concentration, vibrant acidity, and refined tannins.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep purple with ruby highlights, reflecting its concentration and intensity.
• Aroma: Aromas of black and red fruits, with layers of lavender, wood, and minerals, adding depth and complexity.
• Palate: Full-bodied with high acidity and structured tannins. Flavors of ripe blackberry, plum, and mineral notes are complemented by hints of spice and floral undertones, finishing long with remarkable freshness and ageability.

Did you know?

The name Mundus Bacillus Terrae pays homage to the unique bacteria in the Adrianna Vineyard’s limestone-rich soils. These microorganisms, or “microbes of the earth,” help the vine roots adapt to the vineyard’s challenging conditions, enabling the production of intensely concentrated, mineral-driven wines. Catena Zapata has committed extensive research to understanding the vineyard’s biodiversity, making the Adrianna Vineyard the most studied vineyard in the world, with findings published in several prestigious scientific journals.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Argentinian Ribeye Steak with Chimichurri: The wine’s structured tannins and rich fruit complement the robust flavors of grilled steak, while its acidity cuts through the herbaceous chimichurri.
• Wild Boar Ragout with Rosemary and Thyme: The earthy and spicy flavors of the ragout resonate with the wine’s depth and mineral complexity.
• Aged Comté Cheese: The wine’s acidity and tannins pair beautifully with the nutty, intense flavors of Comté, enhancing the richness of both.
• Porcini Mushroom Risotto: The wine’s minerality and earthy notes harmonize with the mushrooms, while its freshness balances the creamy risotto.

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.