Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino

Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino

Wine Description

Nicolás Catena’s dream was to make Argentine wines that could stand with the best in the world. He knew he needed to grow fruit of unprecedented quality, with a level of concentration, complexity, and balance never before seen in Argentina. Once each specific lot was identified and its potential revealed through row-by-row micro-vinification, Nicolás developed a plant-by-plant selection through which he could further enhance the characteristics of each lot. Today, the Zapata vines are specifically marked and meticulously cared for. 

Remington-Mendoza
Laura Catena sits at a table with a glass of wine
Malbec Grapes
Alejandro Vigil (Chief Winemaker) and Laura Catena Tasting
Malbec Clone in La Piramide Vineyard
Nicolás Catena
Bodega Catena Zapata
Bodega Catena Zapata
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Acclaim
“The fruit is sourced from vineyards in the Uco Valley and Maipu, resulting in a fruit-focused, silky Malbec. Delicate aromas of berries and spices introduce a fresh palate of strawberry, cherry and mulberry flavors enhanced by a dash of pink pepper. This vintage is lively and juicy, with a lengthy and delicious finish.” – (Cellar Selection) — Wine Enthusiast, Nov 2024
“The 2021 Malbec Argentino harmoniously blends 50% Lulunta grapes with 50% Paraje Altamira. For those who recall the old style, characterized by a significant oak influence on the aromas, this vintage marks a pivotal moment. Half of the wine was aged for 16 months in foudres, while the other half matured in concrete vats. The outcome is a wine that leans more towards its primary characteristics. Displays a purple hue. The nose reveals notes of cherry, blackberry, orange peel, violets and cedar. It presents a dry and plush profile on the palate, with fine-grained tannins and a juicy flow that culminates in a lingering fruity finish, accompanied by a vibrant and refreshing sensation.”
— Vinous, Sep 2023
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Vineyard & Production Info
Vineyard name
Angelica Vineyard (Lulunta district) and Nicasia Vineyard (Altamira district)
Soil composition
Sand, Gravel, Stony, and Clay-Loam
Training method
VSP
Elevation:
3,018-3,593 feet
Vines/acre:
2200
Yield/acre:
1.2 tons
Exposure:
Northwestern
Year vineyard planted:
1992-1996
Harvest time:
March - April
First vintage of this wine:
2004
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Winemaking & Aging
Varietal composition:
100% Malbec
Fermentation container:
Vertical open barriques & small stainless steel tanks
Length of alcoholic fermentation:
30-32 days
Fermentation temperature:
82.4 - 86 °F
Maceration technique:
Manual punching down
Malolactic fermentation:
Yes
Type of aging container:
Barriques
Size of aging container:
225 L
Type of oak:
French oak
Length of aging before bottling:
24 months
Age of Aging Container:
100% New
Length of bottle aging:
12 - 18 months
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Analytical Data
pH level:
3.5
Acidity:
6.15 g/L
Alcohol:
13.9 %