Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Adrianna Vineyard, located in Gualtallary, is often referred to as the "Grand Cru of South America." Positioned at an altitude of 1,400 meters (4,575 feet), it benefits from intense sunlight during the day and cool nights, with temperature variations of 15–20°C, ensuring optimal ripening and preservation of acidity.

This vineyard is renowned for its calcareous soils, rich in limestone and fossilized animal and fish bones, remnants of an ancient riverbed. These unique soil characteristics contribute to the distinctive floral aromas and earthy minerality of the wine. Block 1, where White Bones Chardonnay is sourced, sits atop gravel-rich topsoil with thick layers of limestone below. The terroir's influence on the vines enhances root penetration and imparts remarkable complexity to the grapes.

Winemaking

The 2020 White Bones Chardonnay is made entirely from 100% Chardonnay grown in Block 1 of the Adrianna Vineyard. The grapes underwent cold settling at 6°C for 12 hours before fermentation in French oak barrels, lasting between 45 and 95 days at 16°C.

The wine underwent battonage (lees stirring) during aging, with approximately two-thirds undergoing malolactic fermentation, adding creaminess and complexity. It was then aged for 12-16 months in second, third, and fourth-use French oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop subtle oak nuances while retaining its vibrant fruit character.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale gold with greenish hues, brilliant and inviting.
• Aroma: Bright citrus notes of lemon and lime, combined with white stone fruits like peach and pear, with subtle floral and mineral undertones.
• Palate: A voluptuous and textured wine, featuring intense flavors of pear, apple, and hints of honeyed florals, leading to a long, clean finish marked by its profound minerality.

Did You Know?

The name White Bones originates from the fossilized remains found in the vineyard's calcareous soils, including ancient animal and fish bones. These unique deposits significantly influence the wine’s distinctive mineral character.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled scallops with lemon butter: The wine’s vibrant acidity and mineral finish beautifully complement the delicate sweetness of the scallops.
• Roasted chicken with thyme and garlic: Its creamy texture and citrus notes enhance the savory flavors of the dish.
• Goat cheese tart with caramelized onions: The wine’s minerality and floral undertones pair seamlessly with the richness of the tart.
• Fresh oysters: The clean, crisp finish of the wine mirrors the briny freshness of the oysters.

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.