Catena Zapata, Nicasia Vineyard Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina, 2021

Overview of the Wine
Great wines begin in the vineyard. Our vision is to make rich and unforgettable wines that are true to the special place they come from. The story of Catena is the story of Argentine wine.

Founded in 1902, Argentina’s Bodega Catena Zapata is known for its pioneering role in resurrecting Malbec and in discovering extreme high altitude terroirs in the Andean foothills of Mendoza.

Over the years, Nicolás Catena Zapata discovered the influence altitude has on fruit quality. As one climbs the altitudes of the Andes the average temperature decreases and the amplitude between day and night temperatures increases.

This environment provides the ideal climate for grape maturation. Each of the Catena Zapata family vineyards is divided into parcels according to their soil composition. These parcels are farmed individually, with an eye on encouraging their most authentic fruit expression.

Grape / Blend
Malbec

Origin
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard Malbec is a dark violet Malbec. Ripe black-and-red currant, raspberries and an elegant touch of french oak are some of the aromas that we can appreciate from this special Malbec from one of the Catena's highest family vineyards. Very complex and expressive palate, with a creamy violet flavor with ripe blueberries, cassis, vanilla and spice cake.

Pairs well with roasted veal, shiitake mushrooms, and beef tenderloin.

97 Points - James Suckling  
A mixture of black and blue fruit, very perfumed and elegant. Cherries, plums and blueberries with a peppery undertone. Crushed violets, too. Bone-dry on the palate with abundant, silky tannins and a juicy, lengthy finish. Drinkable now, but better from 2026.

97 Points - Vinous
The 2021 Malbec Nicasia Vineyard originates from a small plot nestled within Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley. It was aged up to 16 months in concrete vats and foudres and boasts a deep purple color. The complex nose unveils layers of crushed plums, blueberries, herbs, curry, lavender and graphite. Initially dry and plush, the palate transitions into a taut, chalky, overwhelming, and juicy texture, as if embodying structure and suppleness. This unique and flavorful Malbec offers a high-pitched intensity of flavor that lingers, showcasing a prolonged focus on the fruit.

Product size: 750ml