¡Vamos! Let’s celebrate World Malbec Day !
Catena Zapata is a name that resonates deeply within the world of wine, especially for those who appreciate the enchanting vineyards of Argentina. Founded by the visionary winemaker Nicolás Catena in the late 20th century, this winery is often credited with putting Argentinian Malbec on the global wine map.
Nestled at the foothills of the Andes, the Mendoza estate boasts high-altitude vineyards that yield grapes bursting with flavor and character. The unique terroir, combined with a commitment to innovation and quality, allows Catena Zapata to produce wines that reflect the rich heritage of the region. Each bottle tells a story—of the land, the people, and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation.
The winery is renowned not only for its iconic Malbec but also for its diverse range of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Torrontés. Their flagship wine, the Catena Zapata "Argentino," showcases the pure essence of Malbec, featuring intense aromas of dark fruits, floral notes, and a complexity that captivates the palate.
Beyond exceptional wine production, Catena Zapata is also dedicated to sustainability and preserving the environment. The winery employs innovative practices that honor the land and prioritize ecological balance, ensuring that future generations can savor these remarkable wines.
Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2020
The very essence of this wine is captured in its label, an evocative artwork that unfolds the compelling saga of Malbec through the symbolic power of four extraordinary women. First, we encounter Eleanor of Aquitaine, the formidable Queen of both France and England in the 12th century, who ignited Malbec's prestige within the sophisticated Court of Love. Then, witness "The Immigrant," a poignant representation of Malbec's audacious journey across oceans to the promising terroir of the New World, specifically Argentina, during the transformative 18th and 19th centuries. Following this pivotal migration, the narrative introduces Phylloxera, not as a mere pestilence, but as the unlikely catalyst – the "insect villainess" whose destructive path across 19th-century French vineyards ironically cleared the way for Malbec's triumphant rebirth in the fertile lands of Argentina. Finally, the label culminates with the "Renaissance of Malbec," a legacy passionately championed by the visionary Catena family and embodied by the dynamic Adrianna Catena in the 20th century. This label is more than just an identifier; it's a visual testament to Malbec's resilience, its global odyssey, and its ultimate triumph.
This Malbec hails from the Angelica Vineyard (Lulunta district) and Nicasia Vineyard (Altamira district), where the soil composition is a blend of sand, gravel, stony elements, and clay-loam at high elevation of 900-1000 meters in altitude. These meticulously cared-for vines yield a small harvest, resulting in a wine with remarkable concentration .Fermentation in vertical open barriques and small stainless steel tanks. It is aged in barriques of 225L, 100% new French oak for 24 months before bottling and then aged in the bottle for 12-18 months.
As you pour this wine into your glass, its deep, dark violet hue with a ruby core mesmerizes, hinting at the richness that lies within.
On the nose, the wine unfolds a bouquet of intense aromas that dance with elegance. Dark, ripe blackberry and plum notes dominate the profusion of fruit, intertwined with whispers of black cherry and hints of wild blueberry. As the wine breathes, it reveals alluring layers of perfumed violets and subtle spice, reminiscent of cracked pepper and cocoa—a vivid reminder of the terroir from which it hails.
Taking a sip, the palate is greeted with a luxurious, velvety texture that envelops the senses. The wine bursts forth with blackberry compote and dark plum flavors, beautifully balanced by notes of dark chocolate and a hint of menthol, contributing to an extraordinary depth. The well-integrated tannins provide a structure that is both robust and refined, leading into a harmonious acidity that enhances its freshness.
As the experience evolves, the finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of ripe fruit and soft spices that beckons for another sip. The complexity of the 2020 vintage speaks to the meticulous attention to detail and artistry that Catena Zapata embodies, elevating the Malbec beyond expectations.
This wine is not merely an accompaniment to a meal, but a testament to a legacy of excellence—a captivating journey that reflects the spirit of Argentina's winemaking heritage. Ideal for pairing with hearty dishes like grilled leg of lamb with herbs followed by a sumptuous flourless chocolate torte.
For anyone looking to explore the depth of Argentinian wines, Catena Zapata is not just a winery; it’s an experience that invites you to indulge in the passion and artistry of winemaking.
