Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2021

Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2021

 

Zoom Mouse over image to zoom
Catena Zapata
White Stones Chardonnay 2021
  • Vintage : 2021
  • Country : Argentina
  • Region : Mendoza
  • Subregion :
  • Type : White
  • Style : Medium Bodied Aromatic Dry
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 12,6°
  • Grappes : 100% Chardonnay

Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2021 is a masterpiece of high-altitude winemaking, offering a vivid expression of Mendoza’s Adrianna Vineyard. This wine shines with its precision, elegance, and pure mineral character.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 98 2021
JS James Suckling 98 2021
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 97 2021
TA Tim Atkin 96 2021
WE Wine Enthusiast 95 2021
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Adrianna Vineyard, located in Gualtallary, Mendoza, is often called the "Grand Cru of South America." Situated at an altitude of 1,395 meters (4,575 feet), it boasts one of the world’s highest vineyard elevations. The vineyard’s stony, gravelly soils covered with white oval stones lend the wine its name and contribute to its unique minerality.

Planted in 1992, this site benefits from a cooler climate due to its altitude, preserving the grapes’ natural acidity. The significant diurnal temperature range enhances polyphenol development and ensures complex aromatics. The Adrianna Vineyard is among the most studied vineyards globally, with significant efforts devoted to understanding its biodiversity and microclimates.

Winemaking

This wine is crafted from 100% Chardonnay, sourced from 27 select rows within Block 1 of the Adrianna Vineyard. After a meticulous harvest between March and April, the grapes underwent fermentation in French oak barriques. Malolactic fermentation was carried out, enhancing the wine’s texture and complexity.

The wine was aged in 225-liter French oak barrels to impart subtle structure while maintaining a fresh and vibrant profile. Every step of the winemaking process was designed to highlight the purity and minerality of the vineyard.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Pale gold with brilliant reflections.
  • Aroma: A delicate bouquet of jasmine, white peach, and white flowers, interwoven with elegant mineral notes.
  • Palate: Lively and refreshing acidity complements flavors of stone fruit and floral notes, finishing with a persistent and elegant minerality.

Did you know?

The Adrianna Vineyard is considered the most studied vineyard in the world, with 25 scientific papers dedicated to its unique terroir and biodiversity. Additionally, 39% of the vineyard land remains untouched, preserving its natural state and contributing to the site’s remarkable ecosystem.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Seared scallops with lemon butter sauce: The wine’s acidity and mineral notes enhance the richness of the scallops and the tang of lemon.
  • Grilled chicken with rosemary and garlic: The Chardonnay’s floral and stone fruit aromas complement the savory herbs.
  • Risotto with white truffle: The wine’s complexity and fresh finish balance the earthy luxury of truffles.
  • Goat cheese tart with caramelized onions: Its vibrant acidity cuts through the creaminess of the cheese and the sweetness of the onions.

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.

Robert Parker (RP) : 98 Points (2021)
The 2021 White Stones Chardonnay is subtler and more elegant, a little closed with moderate ripeness and alcohol (12.5%) and a mineral palate with strong chalky sensations. It might be worth reproducing their explanation about this wine, one of the finest whites in Argentina: "The term 'white stones' refers to the composition of said rows of soil, with white oval stones covered by gravel. The vineyard 'Adrianna' is planted at an altitude of almost 1,500 meters above sea level, in the district of Gualtallary in Tupungato. The stony soil prevents deep root growth, providing optimum drainage. These soils are very poor in organic matter and contribute to support vines' permanent stress conditions. The cool nights allow for very slow ripening, optimal acid retention and low yields." This is serious and tasty. 7,300 bottles produced. (LG)

James Suckling (JS) : 98 Points (2021)
A very mineral, flinty chardonnay full of wet stones, lime and some green fruit. Austere and chalky on the medium-bodied palate, really transparent and elegant with super bright and beautifully integrated acidity. Pure, linear and long. Drink or hold.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 97 Points (2021)
The 2021 Chardonnay Adrianna Vineyard White Stones comes from Gualtallary, Uco Valley. It was aged for up to 16 months in used barrels. Pale yellow in the glass with a greenish sheen. The enticing aromatic profile presents pear and mountain herb notes with acacia, gunpowder, and hazelnut over layers of linden blossom and mint. However, it is on the palate, where this wine truly comes into its own: tart and sculpted with a chalky texture and saline flavor, it ends with complex, lingering fruit and herb flavors. A distinctive high-altitude Chardonnay from a cool year. (JH)

Tim Atkin (TA) : 96 Points (2021)
Picked ten days before its stablemate, White Bones, this wonderful Chardonnay was made without new wood for the first time in 2021. Yellow apple, citrus and pear flavours are complemented by subtle patisserie spices, a textured mid palate and a lingering, refreshing, beautifully balanced finish. 2024-29

Wine Enthusiast (WE) : 95 Points (2021)
This white comes from the Adrianna vineyard in Gualtallary and displays a lively acidity that speaks of its origin. Celery, dried lemon and light notes of oak spices create an aromatic bouquet. It's balanced and has subtle notes of green apple, lime, ginger and mint over a mineral texture. The finish is long and offers hints of dried fruit. This is ready to be enjoyed now, but will certainly develop over the next several years. Drink through 2031. (JV)

Catena Zapata Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
JS
93
RP
93
Catena Alta Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished wine from Bodega Catena Zapata, exemplifying the richness and structure characteristic of high-altitude Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon.
47,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Malbec 2019
VN
95
JS
94
WS
91
The Catena Alta Malbec is a testament to the Catena family's dedication to producing world-class wines, featuring rich, layered flavors and elegant tannins from meticulously selected vineyard lots.
50,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec 2019
Catena Zapata
Nicasia Malbec 2019
WS
93
RP
97
W&S
91
Catena Zapata Nicasia Malbec is a refined and elegant single-vineyard Malbec, produced from meticulously selected vines in one of the Catena family’s historic vineyards.
82,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata
Argentino Malbec 2021
WS
93
RP
96
VN
95
Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino is a flagship Argentine Malbec, paying tribute to the grape's journey from Cahors, France, to its rebirth in Argentina, where it found its ultimate expression.
99,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
JS
92
RP
92
WS
92
Catena Alta Chardonnay is a high-altitude Chardonnay from Mendoza, Argentina, offering elegance and complexity shaped by the unique Adrianna and Domingo vineyards, renowned for their distinct terroir at nearly 1,500 meters.
31,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata
Catena Malbec 2021
JS
91
RP
91
W&S
90
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec is a distinguished Argentine Malbec, crafted from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza. Known for its depth and complexity, this wine exemplifies the best characteristics of Malbec from this renowned producer.
22,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Chardonnay 2021
Catena Zapata
Catena Chardonnay 2021
JS
92
RP
92
W&S
94
The Catena Chardonnay is a finely crafted wine that showcases the unique terroirs of Mendoza's high-altitude vineyards, delivering a harmonious blend of rich textures and vibrant acidity.
20,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata 2019
Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata 2019
Catena Zapata
Nicolas Catena Zapata 2019
JS
98
VN
96
RP
96
The Catena Zapata Nicolás Catena Zapata is a premier expression of Argentine winemaking, blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc to showcase the finest characteristics of Mendoza's terroir. This wine continues the legacy of its inaugural 1997 vintage, which set new standards by triumphing in blind tastings against prestigious First Growth Bordeaux wines.
94,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
White Stones Chardonnay 2020
WS
90
RP
96
DCT
95
The White Stones Chardonnay from Catena Zapata is a fresh, mineral-driven Chardonnay with aromas of white flowers and stone fruit. Grown at 4,575 feet in the Adrianna Vineyard, this wine captures the essence of its stony, calcareous soils.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019
Catena Zapata Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019
Catena Zapata
Adrianna Fortuna Terrae 2019
JS
99
VN
95
WS
96
The Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae is a remarkable Malbec that embodies the unique terroir of the high-altitude Adrianna Vineyard, delivering exceptional elegance and depth.
109,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata River Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata River Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata
River Malbec 2020
WS
93
RP
97
JS
98
Sourced from the River sector of Adrianna Vineyard, at an elevation of 1,372 meters (4,500 feet), this wine captures Mendoza’s vibrant acidity, minerality, and concentrated aromas, making it a hallmark of high-altitude winemaking.
175,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020
Catena Zapata
Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2020
RP
97
JS
97
Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae is a powerful, high-altitude Malbec sourced from the iconic Adrianna Vineyard, renowned for its mineral complexity and structured elegance.
260,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
White Bones Chardonnay 2020
WS
95
RP
99
WE
94
White Bones Chardonnay 2020 is a singular expression of the Adrianna Vineyard, combining vibrant citrus and white fruit flavors with a profound minerality, showcasing Mendoza’s high-altitude terroir.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
JS
94
RP
92
WS
92
Catena Alta Chardonnay is a premium Argentine Chardonnay that beautifully combines elegance, complexity, and minerality, reflecting the unique terroirs of high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza.
32,50 €
Quantity : moins plus
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2018
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2018
Catena Zapata
Catena Alta Malbec 2018
WS
91
RP
93
WE
93
The Catena Zapata Catena Alta Malbec 2018 is an elegant, high-altitude expression of Malbec, offering a sophisticated depth that reflects Argentina's most historic vineyards.
49,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
125,00 €
Quantity : Moins     Plus
 
 
We also suggest...
Argentina
91 James Suckling
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2021
Catena Zapata Catena Malbec is a distinguished Argentine Malbec, crafted from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza. Known for its depth and complexity, this wine exemplifies the best characteristics of Malbec from this renowned producer.
Catena Malbec 2021
22,90 €
Argentina
92 James Suckling
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
Catena Alta Chardonnay is a high-altitude Chardonnay from Mendoza, Argentina, offering elegance and complexity shaped by the unique Adrianna and Domingo vineyards, renowned for their distinct terroir at nearly 1,500 meters.
Catena Alta Chardonnay 2020
31,50 €
Argentina
97 Vinous (Antonio Galloni)
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020
Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay 2020
The White Stones Chardonnay from Catena Zapata is a fresh, mineral-driven Chardonnay with aromas of white flowers and stone fruit. Grown at 4,575 feet in the Adrianna Vineyard, this wine captures the essence of its stony, calcareous soils.
White Stones Chardonnay 2020
125,00 €
Australia
94 James Suckling
By Farr Tout Pres Geelong Pinot Noir 2021
By Farr Tout Pres Geelong Pinot Noir 2021
The By Farr Tout Pres Geelong Pinot Noir is a compelling wine from a unique and challenging vineyard. Planted in 2001, the Tout Pres vineyard is renowned for its intriguing terroir and dense planting, resulting in a wine of great structure and complexity.
Tout Pres Geelong Pinot Noir 2021
105,00 €
Chile
93+ Robert Parker
De Martino Las Olvidadas Guarilihue Mezcla Tinta 2021
De Martino Las Olvidadas Guarilihue Mezcla Tinta 2021
De Martino Las Olvidadas is a vibrant and complex field blend of País (80%) and the rare San Francisco (20%), showcasing the unique heritage of Itata Valley, Chile. This wine is light-bodied yet deeply structured, offering a blend of red fruit, floral, and herbal notes.
Las Olvidadas Guarilihue Mezcla Tinta 2021
44,50 €
USA
96 Decanter
Ridge Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Ridge Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Saturated purple in color. Aromas of cassis, blueberry, cola, licorice, and sweet oak. Ripe blackberry fruit entry, full bodied, rich textures, exotic spice and toasted oak. Complex, long, sensuous finish.
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
124,00 €