Catena Zapata Argentino Vineyard Malbec 2020

The Catena Zapata Argentino Vineyard Malbec 2020 is a prestigious single-vineyard wine that exemplifies the pinnacle of Malbec winemaking in Argentina. Produced from the estate’s high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza, this wine captures the elegance, power, and complexity of old-vine Malbec. Sourced from two historic plots, the Adrianna and Nicasia vineyards, both located at elevations of nearly 5,000 feet in the Andes foothills, this wine benefits from intense sunlight and cool mountain air, which results in a Malbec of exceptional balance, concentration, and aging potential.

The 2020 vintage was characterized by low yields, leading to a wine with deep intensity and ripe, concentrated fruit. Catena’s meticulous vineyard management and minimal intervention in the winery allow the vineyard’s unique terroir to shine through in every bottle.

Appearance: Deep, opaque purple with a dark, almost black core, reflecting its intensity and concentration.

Aroma: Bold and expressive, with layers of ripe blackberry, black cherry, and plum, intertwined with floral notes of violets and a touch of lavender. The nose also reveals complex hints of cocoa, espresso, and vanilla from the oak aging, along with earthy undertones of graphite and tobacco, adding depth and intrigue.

Taste: Full-bodied and opulent, the palate is rich with flavours of dark fruit—blackberry, cassis, and plum—balanced by savoury notes of leather, tobacco, and a touch of black pepper. The wine's tannins are firm yet velvety, providing structure and longevity, while its bright acidity keeps the rich fruit in balance. Subtle layers of dark chocolate, clove, and roasted coffee beans add complexity, making each sip an evolving experience.

Finish: Long and luxurious, with lingering notes of dark berries, spices, and a touch of minerality. The finish is smooth and polished, with fine-grained tannins and a vibrant lift from the acidity, ensuring the wine’s aging potential over the next decade or more.

Pairings: Charred venison rack with mesquite, black cabbage, and caramelized pearl onion. The wine’s bold tannins and deep fruit flavours will stand up to the gamey venison, while its complexity will complement the smoky mesquite and rich onions.

400g 9+MB grilled wagyu rump cap with whipped buffalo feta, gremolata, and mojo verde. The wine’s rich fruit and firm tannins will balance the marbled, fatty wagyu, while its acidity cuts through the richness, making it a perfect match for such an indulgent dish.

The Catena Zapata Argentino Vineyard Malbec 2020 is a stunning, age-worthy Malbec that beautifully expresses Mendoza’s high-altitude terroir. With its combination of powerful fruit, complex aromatics, and refined structure, it can be enjoyed now with bold dishes or cellared for further development over the next 10–15 years.