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Catena Zapata, a renowned Domaine Argentine winery, embodies family heritage, innovation and the distinctive expression of terroir in every sip of its wines.
Founded by Nicolás Catena Zapata in the early 20th century, Domaine has played a crucial role in raising the quality of Argentine wines worldwide.
The story begins with the immigration of Angelo Catena, an Italian immigrant, to Argentina in the early 20th century. His grandson, Nicolás Catena Zapata, inherited his grandfather's passion for viticulture and set about elevating Argentine wines to international heights. Innovation has been an important constant, with Nicolás pioneering the introduction of Bordeaux grapes to the Mendoza region, recognizing the unique potential of the terroir to produce world-class wines.
The Domaine extends over several vineyards, some of which are located at considerable altitudes, reaching up to 1500 meters above sea level. These differences in altitude, combined with the variety of soils, give the grapes unique characteristics that are reflected in the complexity and depth of the wines.
A key element of the philosophy is the exploration of terroir. Domaine produces wines that faithfully express the character of each parcel, highlighting the diversity of microclimates and soils in the Mendoza region. This approach has led to... See more ...
Nicolás Catena Zapata is rightly recognized for putting Argentine wines on the world map. Proof of this is 2019, a wonderfully complex wine whose blend (42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, 28% Cabernet Franc) recreates the Bordeaux wines of the 18th and 19th centuries. At that time, Malbec predominated over Merlot in the Médoc. Pre-phylloxera (non-grafted) massal selections of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon give birth to this wine that transports us back in time, from the high altitude vineyards of Mendoza.
The grapes come from Catena Zapata's two best vineyards: Nicasia (1095 meters above sea level) and Adrianna (1450 meters above sea level). Fermentation takes place in small oak barrels, in cement and stainless steel vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels for 18 months.
A deep, intense violet color, the nose exudes great aromatic power with a multitude of concentrated black fruit notes, notes ranging from blackcurrant and blackberry to licorice and anise. Noble floral touches of violet appear. The nose also reveals a peppery edge, hints of fresh herbs and bitter chocolate, in an ensemble blending complexity, finesse and austerity.
On the palate, finesse is the order of the day, with polished, juicy tannins. The structure is dense but elegant, fresh with a fine acid balance and hints of eucalyptus. Great concentration, with pronounced aromas of black fruits and redcurrants, a sumptuous blend of ripe red fruits, and a strong mineral side reminiscent of pencil lead and graphite. Its long, persistent finish suggests, for the most patient, a long ageing potential. Otherwise, this Catena Zapata Nicolas 2019 will provide enormous pleasure now, after a good decanting, with herb-grilled lamb, a rib of beef grilled with vine shoots or during an Argentine "asado".
