Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Catena Zapata estate is located in Mendoza, Argentina, a region renowned for its high-altitude vineyards and exceptional viticultural conditions. The grapes for this wine are sourced from the La Pirámide, Domingo, Adrianna, and Nicasia vineyards, each contributing unique characteristics due to their varied elevations ranging from 950 to 1,450 meters above sea level. This high altitude ensures cooler temperatures and greater diurnal temperature variations, which are crucial for developing the grapes' complexity and aromatic intensity.

The soil in these vineyards is primarily sandy-loam, providing excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to sustain the vines. The vineyards are managed using the Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) training system, optimizing sunlight exposure and air circulation. With a vine density of 5,486 vines per hectare and a yield of 1.2 tons per hectare, the focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring each grape contributes to the wine's concentrated flavors.

Winemaking

The Nicolás Catena Zapata is composed of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Malbec, and 25% Cabernet Franc. The grapes are hand-harvested between March and April, ensuring optimal ripeness. Fermentation takes place in vertical open barriques and small stainless steel tanks, with a fermentation temperature maintained between 26-30°C for about 20 days. Manual punching down is employed during the 25-35 day maceration period to enhance extraction.

Malolactic fermentation occurs in barriques and small vats, all made from 100% new French oak, contributing to the wine's complexity and aging potential. The wine is aged for 24 months in these barrels, followed by an additional 12-18 months of bottle aging before release.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Intense, deep purple with bluish-black tones.
• Aroma: Aromas of black fruits such as blackberries, black cherries, and black plums dominate, with subtle notes of vanilla and dark chocolate, intermingled with savory hints of green olive and stony minerality.
• Palate: The palate is tremendously complex, revealing layers of red currant, eucalyptus, and black pepper flavors. Black cherries and blackberries transition to cassis, followed by a hint of saline minerality. The wine is remarkably concentrated with a firm tannic structure, providing the backbone for the lush fruit. The finish is long, indicating the wine's excellent aging potential.

Did you know?

The inaugural 1997 vintage of Nicolás Catena Zapata set a new standard for South American wines by winning a series of blind tastings against prestigious First Growth Bordeaux and other esteemed cuvées worldwide. This wine is crafted from specially marked vines within the Catena family's vineyards, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and exceptional quality.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Bone-in Ribeye Steak: The rich, robust flavors of the wine complement the juicy, charred steak, enhancing the meat's savory depth.
• Lamb Chops with Rosemary: The wine's tannins and complexity balance the rich, earthy flavors of the lamb, while the rosemary adds a complementary herbal note.
• Dark Chocolate Tart: The dark chocolate notes in the wine harmonize with the dessert, creating a luxurious pairing experience.
• Aged Gouda: The wine's firm structure and fruity notes pair wonderfully with the sharp, nutty flavors of aged Gouda, making for an elegant cheese course.

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.