Cassis, violets, blackcurrant, and blackberries are interwoven with licorice, vanilla, leather, and black pepper. Its silky finish is marked by a wonderful minerality, fine tannins, and lively acidity.
The 2021 Malbec Catena Alta comprises 70% sourced from Gualtallary in the Uco Valley and the remaining portion from Luján and Maipú. Aged for up to 18 months in French oak barrels, both new and used, this purple wine reveals aromas of plums and cherries alongside hints of lavender and violets, all atop a subtle cedar layer. Dry and juicy, the supple and velvety tannins are complemented by a nimble flow, resulting in a mildly structured red with a flavorful, lasting finish. If there is a key in Mendoza Malbec, meaning piecing together terroirs to enhance complexity, this bottle might be the example. - 95pts Vinous
Winemaker Notes
Cassis, violets, blackcurrant, and blackberries are interwoven with licorice, vanilla, leather, and black pepper. Its silky finish is marked by a wonderful minerality, fine tannins, and lively acidity.
Professional Ratings
96
Tasting Panel
95
VinousThe 2022 Malbec Catena Alta brings together historic vineyards from Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley to capture the best of both regions: Luján’s generous, supple tannins and Uco’s juicy, fresh fruit. Aged for up to 18 months in barrel, this wine is the essence of Mendoza Malbec. Intense aromas of fresh plum and delicate balsamic notes float over oak and a floral hint in the background. With indulgent depth and a juicy flow, the 2022 balances plush tannins with refined texture to produce a long and sapid palate with a touch of intensity and subtle concentration. This is a rich wine that raises the bar for Mendoza Malbec.
94
Decanter
94
Jeb Dunnuck
94
Wine Spectator
93
James SucklingRacy berries, cherries and touches of white pepper and tamarind. Very juicy and fluid, with fine-grained tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Long, succulent and very poised. Drink or hold.
93
Wine Enthusiast
92
Wine Advocate
About the Producer
In 1902, Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant, planted his first vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina. The winery has remained under family control now in its fourth generation and is one of the few family-owned wine companies in Argentina that remains in Argentine hands. Owned today by Nicolas Catena and his daughter Laura, Bodega Catena Zapata is known as the pioneer of fine wine from Argentina, and Nicolas is recognized as the vintner who revolutionized wine quality in Argentina. A trained economist, Nicolas began this revolution in the early 1980s and continues to challenge himself and his team to make wines that can be counted among the best in the world
