Description

Score: 97 pts Descorchados (Patricio Tapia) - 95 pts James Suckling.

Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2023 is more than a vintage — it is the culmination of over a century of family dedication to elevating Argentine Malbec to the world stage. Sourced from the historic family vineyards of Nicasia and Angélica, and crafted from pre-phylloxera massal selections known as “Catena Cuttings,” this iconic wine represents the epic journey of a family to produce a Malbec capable of standing among the greatest wines in the world.

On the nose, it reveals layered aromas of fresh violets, ripe blackberries, and blueberries, intertwined with subtle spice notes, hints of cigar box, and white pepper. The palate is vibrant and beautifully structured, with compact, refined tannins and remarkable precision. Juicy yet elegant, it unfolds with depth and harmony, leading to an exceptionally long and persistent finish.

A world-class expression of Argentine Malbec — powerful, refined, and built for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.

Technical Sheet

• Winery: Catena Zapata

• Score: 97 pts Descorchados (Patricio Tapia) - 95 pts James Suckling.

• Type: Red Wine

• Vintage: 2023

• Varietal: Malbec

• Blend: 100% Malbec

• Vineyards: Nicasia (La Consulta, San Carlos, 1,095 m a.s.l.) and Angélica (Lunlunta, Maipú, 920 m a.s.l.) – Catena family vineyards

• Vine Material: Pre-phylloxera massal selection (“Catena Cuttings”)

• Vinification: Cold maceration with whole clusters (2–10 days); fermentation for approx. 17–28 days with manual pump-overs; total maceration 25–38 days

• Aging: 15–18 months in oak foudres (2,000 liters) and concrete tanks (3,000 liters)

• Alcohol: 13.60%

• Total Acidity: 6.1 g/L (tartaric acid)

• pH: 3.60

• Director of Winemaking: Alejandro Vigil

• Winemaker: Ernesto Bajda

• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C (61–64°F)

• Country: Argentina

• Food Pairing: Grilled red meats, aged steaks, lamb, game dishes, hard cheeses, mushroom-based cuisine

• Aging Potential: 10+ years