Bodega Catena Zapata : Argentino 2023

Characteristics and tasting notes for Argentino 2023 by Bodega Catena Zapata

Tasting

Colour
This wine displays a beautiful garnet hue, enhanced by delicate violet highlights.

Nose
The complex bouquet combines aromas of black and red fruits, such as blackberry, blackcurrant and plum, with elegant floral notes of violet. Hints of sweet spices, cocoa, Virginia tobacco and graphite complete the picture, along with a lovely chalky minerality.

Palate
The attack is ample and reveals a particularly silky texture. The finely chiselled tannins are accompanied by a superb freshness that carries the wine through to a long, vibrant finish.

Food and wine pairing

This cuvée will pair beautifully with grilled, roasted or braised red meats. It will also be a perfect match for slow-cooked dishes in sauce or a delicious roast duck.

Serving and cellaring

To fully appreciate Argentino 2023, it is best served at a temperature of 14 to 16°C. This wine has excellent ageing potential and can be cellared until around 2043.

A great high-altitude Malbec, a symbol of Mendoza's excellence, by Bodega Catena Zapata

The estate

Founded in 1902 by Nicola Catena, Bodega Catena Zapata is a true institution in Argentina. A pioneer in the discovery of very high-altitude terroirs at the foot of the Andes, this family estate has played a major role in the worldwide renaissance of Malbec. Today, the estate is still owned by the founding family and is run by Laura Catena, representing the fourth generation, as managing director. The brand stands out for its scientific approach and its iconic pyramid-shaped architecture.

The vineyard

The grapes for this cuvée come from historic high-altitude vineyards, notably Angélica and Nicasia, located in the prestigious Mendoza region. Planted at altitudes of between 950 and 1,095 metres, these vines benefit from a cool Andean climate and wide diurnal temperature variations. They thrive on silty clay soils, which encourage slow, optimal ripening of the berries while preserving great freshness and lovely minerality.

Winemaking and ageing

The making of Argentino 2023 begins with a cold pre-fermentation maceration of whole bunches for two to ten days, ensuring gentle extraction. Fermentation then lasts 17 to 28 days with manual pump-overs, for a total maceration of 25 to 38 days. The wine is aged for 10 to 18 months in a combination of multiple-use French oak barrels, large 2,000-litre oak foudres and 3,000-litre concrete vats, refining its tannic structure.

Grape variety

This wine is made exclusively from 100% Malbec.