Catena High Mountain Vines Malbec 2020

Catena Zapata, one of Argentina’s most iconic wine producers, is known for its exceptional high-altitude vineyards in the Mendoza region. The High Mountain Vines Malbec 2020 is sourced from these elevated vineyards, where the combination of extreme altitude and cool temperatures allows the Malbec grapes to develop vibrant acidity, deep colour, and concentrated flavours. Catena’s pioneering work with high-altitude sites, particularly in the Andes foothills, has helped define Argentina’s modern Malbec style, and this wine is a perfect reflection of that expertise.

The 2020 vintage, with its relatively dry growing season, produced a wine of remarkable concentration and balance, showcasing Mendoza’s high-altitude terroir. Catena employs sustainable viticulture practices and traditional winemaking techniques to craft wines that are both expressive and age-worthy.

Appearance: Deep violet with almost opaque intensity, showcasing its richness and concentration.

Aroma: Aromatic and bold, with layers of ripe blackberries, black cherries, and plum, complemented by floral notes of violet and a touch of spice. As it opens, subtle hints of cocoa, vanilla, and a touch of black pepper emerge from the oak aging, adding depth and complexity.

Taste: Full-bodied and rich, the palate bursts with flavours of ripe dark fruit—blackberry, plum, and cassis—balanced by savoury notes of leather and dried herbs. The wine’s tannins are well-structured yet smooth, providing a solid backbone for the ripe fruit. Bright acidity lifts the wine, adding freshness and balance to the lush, velvety texture. There’s a touch of minerality from the high-altitude vineyards, enhancing the overall complexity.

Finish: Long and lingering, with notes of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of chocolate. The wine finishes with a perfect balance of tannin and acidity, leaving a lasting impression of depth and refinement.

Pairings: 400g 9+MB seared wagyu striploin with garlic oyster fungi, truffle cream sugo, dried king brow, and marrow jus. The wine’s rich fruit and tannic structure will complement the marbled richness of the wagyu, while its acidity cuts through the creaminess of the truffle sugo.

Spiced lamb ribs with burnt maple, parsley, and hazelnut crumb. The bold, smoky flavours of the lamb will match the wine’s dark fruit and spicy notes, while its tannins balance the richness of the meat.

Catena High Mountain Vines Malbec 2020 is a powerful yet refined expression of Argentine Malbec, showcasing the balance of ripe fruit, vibrant acidity, and structured tannins that come from high-altitude vineyards. It can be enjoyed now with rich, flavourful dishes or cellared for further development over the next 5–7 years.