NZ
Australia
Family-run since 1902, Catena Zapata is a pioneer of high-altitude viticulture and Mendoza terroir research.
Fruit is sourced from estate vineyards in both the Uco Valley and Lujan de Cuyo, blended from four altitudes to build layered structure and complexity.
Fermented in small lots and matured for 12 months in French oak, a portion new, to enhance texture and refine tannins.
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Description
The Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2022 is a benchmark expression of Mendoza Malbec, crafted by one of Argentina's most influential family-run producers. Founded in 1902, Catena Zapata has led the study of high-altitude terroir, with viticulturalist Laura Catena and chief winemaker Alejandro Vigil spearheading research into soil, elevation and site expression. Fruit for this wine is drawn from estate vineyards in both the Uco Valley and Lujan de Cuyo, spanning four distinct altitudes to build complexity and structure. Fermented in small lots to preserve the character of each site, the wine is matured for 12 months in French oak, a proportion of which is new, adding subtle spice and finesse without masking fruit purity. Bottled at 13.5% ABV, it opens with lifted aromas of black cherry, violet, cassis and mocha, layered with hints of spice and graphite. The palate is vibrant yet structured, delivering ripe dark fruit wrapped in fine tannins and balanced by fresh acidity, with a long, mineral-driven finish. Approachable now but capable of evolving over the next 5-7 years, this wine reflects both altitude precision and Catena's meticulous winemaking craft.
Tasting Profile
- Light
- Full
- Low Tannin
- Tannic
- Sweet
- Dry
- Low Acidity
- High Acidity
Aroma:Cherry, Plum, Violet
Palate:Spice
Food Pairings:
Cheese
Game
Pork
Poultry
Red Meat
Description
The Catena Zapata Catena Malbec 2022 is a benchmark expression of Mendoza Malbec, crafted by one of Argentina's most influential family-run producers. Founded in 1902, Catena Zapata has led the study of high-altitude terroir, with viticulturalist Laura Catena and chief winemaker Alejandro Vigil spearheading research into soil, elevation and site expression. Fruit for this wine is drawn from estate vineyards in both the Uco Valley and Lujan de Cuyo, spanning four distinct altitudes to build complexity and structure. Fermented in small lots to preserve the character of each site, the wine is matured for 12 months in French oak, a proportion of which is new, adding subtle spice and finesse without masking fruit purity. Bottled at 13.5% ABV, it opens with lifted aromas of black cherry, violet, cassis and mocha, layered with hints of spice and graphite. The palate is vibrant yet structured, delivering ripe dark fruit wrapped in fine tannins and balanced by fresh acidity, with a long, mineral-driven finish. Approachable now but capable of evolving over the next 5-7 years, this wine reflects both altitude precision and Catena's meticulous winemaking craft.
Tasting Profile
- Light
- Full
- Low Tannin
- Tannic
- Sweet
- Dry
- Low Acidity
- High Acidity
Aroma:
Cherry, Plum, Violet
Palate:
Spice
Food Pairings:
Cheese
Game
Pork
Poultry
Red Meat
- Light
- Full
- Low Tannin
- Tannic
- Sweet
- Dry
- Low Acidity
- High Acidity
Cherry, Plum, Violet
Spice
Cheese
Game
Pork
Poultry
Red Meat