Catena Argentino Malbec 2022

Bodega Catena Zapata is a landmark estate in Mendoza, Argentina — founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena and now run by his descendants including Laura Catena. The winery pioneered high-altitude viticulture in Argentina, showing how Malbec could thrive at elevation. Their family vineyards such as Angélica and Nicasia lie between about 920 and 1,095?m altitude, planted on soils ranging from gravel, clay-loam to shallow silt and gravel; the hot sunlight and cool Andean nights help Malbec develop intensity, freshness and structure under sustainable viticulture practices.

The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2022 is a 100% Malbec assembled from grapes of the historic Angélica and Nicasia vineyards. After cold maceration — with a portion of whole-cluster fruit — fermentation proceeds using wild yeasts, followed by extended maceration and 15-18 months ageing in French oak barrels (first, second and third use) to build complexity while preserving varietal purity. The wine shows lush blackberry and plum fruit, violet florals, dark chocolate and subtle spice notes, with fine-grained tannins and a long, elegant finish. It marries beautifully with grilled red meats, lamb, earthy dishes, or matured cheeses.