Malbec Catena 2021

The renowned Argentinean bodega Catena Zapata presents Malbec 'Catena', arich and pulpy expression of the Mendoza region, a high-altitude area at the foot of the Andes mountain range. This bottle is the result of the skilful combination of the high mountain vineyards that Laura Catena, a fourth-generation producer at the helm of the winery, manages and vinifies with the expert advice of oenologist Alejandro Vigil.

Catena Zapata's 'Catena' Malbec is made with only Malbec grapes from three different high mountain plots owned by the estate. These are the Lunlunta vineyard, located at an altitude of 920 metres and characterised by a clay and rocky soil of alluvial origin, the El Cepillo vineyard, located at an altitude of 1.090 metres above sea level and characterised by a more sandy alluvial soil, rich in limestone and rock, and the Gualtallary plot, whose soil, also of alluvial origin, is characterised by an abundance of gravel and limestone, while the altitude reaches 1,450 metres above sea level. Once harvested, the grapes are subjected to 5 days of cold pre-fermentation maceration to promote aromatic extraction. The subsequent alcoholic fermentation is entrusted to indigenous yeasts and lasts about 12 days, followed by 3 weeks of post-fermentation maceration. The subsequent one-year ageing takes place in French oak barrels, of first, second and third passage.

The Malbec 'Catena' from Catena Zapata has an intense ruby red colour. The nose develops fruity hints of plum and blackberry, enriched by deep tones of pepper, tobacco and vanilla. The warmth and concentration on the palate are well supported by the excellent freshness and silky tannins, elements that contribute to the good persistence on the finish.