Catena Malbec 2023

Catena Malbec originates from Argentina, specifically within the Mendoza region. Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena, Bodega Catena Zapata is Argentina's oldest winery still managed by its founding family, now in its fourth generation under Dr. Laura Catena. The winery's philosophy is rooted in pioneering high-altitude viticulture in the Andean foothills, a revolution spearheaded in the 1980s by Nicolás Catena Zapata to prove that Argentine wines could compete with the world's best.

Wine Description

This wine is a 'microclimate blend' sourced from four unique high-altitude estate vineyards—ranging from 920 to 1,450 metres above sea level—to achieve natural balance and complexity.

• Colour: It typically presents a saturated dark violet colour with ruby or purple reflections.

• Aroma: The nose is intense and layered, featuring ripe red and dark fruits (blueberries, cassis, and black plum) joined by delicate notes of violet, lavender, vanilla, and mocha.

• Palate: It offers a rich, concentrated mouthfeel and a soft texture. Flavours include dark berries, chocolate, and roasted hazelnuts, balanced by bright acidity and flinty minerality.

• Finish: The finish is persistent and 'palate-staining', dominated by sweet black and blue fruits with well-integrated, silky tannins.

• Varietal Composition: 100% Malbec.

• ABV: Generally ranges between 13.5% and 14.0%.

• Organic & Sustainable Status: The estate vineyards are Certified Sustainable, and the winery follows a philosophy where quality and sustainability are inextricably linked.

• Stylistic Notes: The wine undergoes extensive cold maceration for five days to extract aromas and is aged for 12 to 14 months in French oak barrels (approximately 35% new).