Catena Zapata 'Catena Appellation San Carlos' Cabernet Franc, Mendoza, Argentina

A captivating expression of Argentina’s Uco Valley terroir, the 2022 Catena Zapata 'Catena Appellation San Carlos' Cabernet Franc stands as a tribute to the diversity, cultural heritage, and winemaking traditions of the San Carlos district. Born from sustainably farmed, high-elevation vineyards in El Cepillo, La Consulta, and Paraje Altamira, this wine delivers a remarkable balance of ripeness, freshness, and savory complexity that sets it apart as one of Argentina’s most exciting interpretations of Cabernet Franc.

Product Details:

• Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Franc
• Region: San Carlos, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
• Vineyards: El Cepillo, La Consulta, Paraje Altamira
• Elevation: 3,960 feet
• Soil Composition: Sandy-loam with clay and silt
• Harvest: April
• Fermentation: Native yeasts, 30% whole cluster, stainless steel
• Maceration: Pumpovers, 10 days
• Aging: 12 months in 225L French oak barriques (1/3 new), followed by 8 months in bottle
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• pH: 3.6
• Acidity: 5.55 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/L

Sensory Description:

In the glass, the wine reveals a vivid garnet hue with purple undertones, foreshadowing its youthful energy. The bouquet is aromatic and expressive, brimming with cassis, raspberry, and red cherry, along with savory herbal notes of thyme, rosemary, oregano, and subtle touches of cedar, ash, and roasted red pepper. On the palate, it is full-bodied yet vibrant, with juicy red fruits, spicy black pepper, and crushed herbs framed by creamy textures and crunchy, fine-grained tannins. The wine finishes with a bright, mouthwatering acidity and lingering notes of spice and earth.

Awards & Accolades:

• 93 Points – Vinous: “Savory Cabernet Franc with creamy, juicy texture and taut, fine-grained structure.”
• 91 Points – James Suckling: “Juicy red cherries, ash, tobacco, and white pepper. Medium-bodied with crunchy tannins.”

Winemaker's Background:

Established in 1902, Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina’s most celebrated and pioneering wine estates. Under the leadership of Nicolas Catena and his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, the family has become world-renowned for championing high-altitude viticulture in Mendoza. Today, with winemaker Alejandro Vigil at the helm, Catena continues to define Argentine excellence through rigorous research, sustainable farming, and a commitment to terroir-driven expression. The Appellation Series pays homage to the unique cultural and geological diversity of Mendoza's villages, showcasing wines with precision, depth, and authenticity.

Serving Suggestions:

Best served at 16–18°C (60–64°F), this Cabernet Franc is a versatile food wine. Pair it with braised lamb, grilled steak, duck breast, or Latin dishes such as enchiladas or mole negro. Its freshness and spice also make it a perfect companion for tomato-based pastas, hard cheeses, or even dark chocolate and berry desserts.

With its poise, vibrancy, and savory depth, the 2022 Catena Appellation San Carlos Cabernet Franc is a true reflection of Mendoza’s mountainous terroir and Catena Zapata’s legacy of precision and passion.