Catena Zapata 'Catena' Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

Blackberry, plum, and violet open with depth and clarity in the 2024 Catena Zapata “Catena” Malbec, a wine shaped by high-altitude vineyard blending and a long-standing family approach to site expression. Sourced from carefully selected estate parcels across Mendoza’s mountain vineyards and crafted under Laura Catena and Alejandro Vigil, it reflects decades of research into elevation, soil, and balance. The result is a wine that connects accessibility with structure, offering both immediate appeal and the capacity to evolve over time.

Product Details:

• Producer: Catena Zapata
• Owners: Catena Family
• Winemakers: Alejandro Vigil, Laura Catena
• Blend: 100% Malbec
• Vineyard Source: Gualtallary, Lunlunta, and El Cepillo estate vineyards
• Soil: Gravel and limestone; loamy clay with rounded stones; loam-sandy soils with calcareous layers
• Elevation: 920 to 1,450 meters
• Fermentation: Wild yeast fermentation over 10 to 16 days
• Maceration: 5-day cold soak at 10°C followed by total maceration of 19 to 22 days
• Aging: 11 to 13 months in French oak barrels, first, second, and third use
• pH: 3.6
• TA: 5.6 g/L
• ABV: 13.5%

Sensory Description:

The wine opens with black cherry, ripe plum, and violet, layered with hints of cocoa, spice, and a subtle mineral edge. The palate is medium to full-bodied, with a supple texture and fine tannins that give shape without heaviness. Dark fruit is carried by fresh acidity, while notes of mocha, cedar, and dried herbs add complexity. The finish is persistent and balanced, showing both concentration and lift.

Producer’s Background:

Catena Zapata is one of Argentina’s most influential wine estates, led by the Catena family across four generations. The winery has played a defining role in identifying and developing high-altitude vineyard sites, particularly for Malbec, through extensive research into soils and elevation. Under the direction of Laura Catena and chief winemaker Alejandro Vigil, the estate continues to refine its vineyard-driven approach, focusing on blending distinct parcels to achieve balance, consistency, and aging potential.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16 to 18 degrees Celsius in a Bordeaux-style glass to highlight structure and aromatic detail. Pair with grilled steak, roasted lamb, empanadas, or hearty vegetable dishes such as roasted eggplant or mushroom-based preparations.