Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Adrianna Vineyard is located in Gualtallary, a sub-region of the Uco Valley in Mendoza, Argentina. Planted in 1992, this vineyard sits at an elevation of 1,395 meters (4,575 feet), making it one of the highest vineyards in Mendoza. The Block 1 portion of the vineyard, where the White Stones Chardonnay is sourced, is named for the large oval stones that cover the ground. These stones are remnants of ancient alluvial deposits, which give the soil a unique character, imparting minerality and freshness to the wines​.

The vineyard benefits from a northwestern exposure, receiving ample sunlight during the day but cooling down significantly at night due to its altitude. This creates a long growing season that allows the grapes to ripen slowly while maintaining high natural acidity, resulting in wines of great elegance and balance​.

Winemaking

The White Stones Chardonnay 2020 is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. After being harvested in March and April, the grapes underwent cold settling for 12 hours at 6°C to preserve freshness. Fermentation took place in French oak barrels over a period of 45 to 95 days at a controlled temperature of 16°C. Bâtonnage (lees stirring) was employed to enhance texture, and about two-thirds of the wine underwent partial malolactic fermentation to add complexity without compromising its vibrant acidity​.

The wine was then aged for 12-16 months in second, third, and fourth-use French oak barrels, allowing it to develop depth while maintaining a delicate oak influence​.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale yellow with bright clarity.
• Aroma: Delicate and refined aromas of white flowers, jasmine, and white peach, complemented by subtle mineral notes.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is elegant and refreshing, with flavors of white peach and jasmine intertwined with a crisp minerality. The wine’s lively acidity contributes to its refreshing quality, leading to a long and lingering finish​.

Did you know?

The name “White Stones” refers to the large, oval-shaped stones covered with a thin white layer of calcium, found in Block 1 of the Adrianna Vineyard. These stones were formed from alluvial deposits that eroded down the mountain, creating a unique vineyard site that imparts a distinctive mineral quality to the wine​.

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.