Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the Catena High Mountain Vines Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – $20.99 , regularly $26.49.
The Bodega Catena Zapata is certainly one of the standout wineries in all of Argentina. Famous for its production of world class Malbecs, it is Argentina’s oldest family winery, started by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena back in 1902. The winery itself is distinguished by its pyramid-like design based on Mayan architecture, located in the sub-appellation of Agrelo.
Our feature this week is their High Mountain Vines Malbec made by fourth generation vintner, Laura Catena and chief winemaker, Alejandro Vigil. It is a blend of 100% Malbec from three different vineyards all harvested at different times:
1. Lunlunta – 3,018 ft (920m) elevation: aluvial origin. Loamy clay in the topsoil with rounded rocks on the bottom.
2. El Cepillo, Eugenio Bustos – 3,593 ft (1,090 m) elevation: aluvial origin. Loam-sandy soil with thick calcareous layers and rounded rocks on the bottom.
3. Gualtallary – 4,757 ft (1,450 m) elevation: aluvial origin. Gravel and limestone soil. Rounded rocks in the bottom.
Deep aromas of ripe red and dark fruits are joined by delicate violet and lavender notes, with traces of vanilla and mocha. A rich, concentrated mouthfeel is highlighted by flavors of blueberries and blackberries with a touch of leather and cinnamon. The wine has well-integrated tannins, bright acidity and a flinty minerality that provides exceptional length to the finish. Try with a grilled steak.
Catena High Mountain Vines Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – $20.99 , regularly $26.49