Laura Catena’s father took over the family business from his own father, Domingo, in the 1960s, at a time when their ancestors were still producing wines according to traditional Italian methods – the family having fled Italy hit by widespread famine in the early 20th century. Each generation played its part in building Bodega Catena Zapata, now considered one of the most renowned family-run estates in Argentina.
Speaking to us directly, Laura Catena explains, “My great-grandfather already believed that Argentina was one of the best places in the world to make wine, but he thought its winemakers would never be able to compete with the French and their exceptional terroirs. My father disagreed with him, insisting that even Argentine wines deserved a place on French tables.” Time proved him right with Jancis Robinson even stating, “Nicolás Catena Zapata is rightly credited with putting Argentine wines on the world map, focusing relentlessly on driving up quality. It’s fantastic to see that he laid the foundations for a true dynasty of winemakers.” Thorough soil surveys, plot-by-plot and high-altitude cultivations, and a constant re-evaluation and refinement of winemaking techniques are the keys of this estate’s success, now a true symbol of Argentine viticulture. The wines are precise, aromatic and a perfect expression of their often cool climate terroir.

Grapes for this 100% Chardonnay are sourced from a plot in the Adrianna vineyard in Gualtallary. Grapes from this particularly pebbly terroir are harvested at optimum ripeness before being transported to the winery. After being pressed, the grapes ferment naturally at low temperature in oak casks thanks to natural yeasts. Around 30% of the wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation. To finish, the cuvée is aged in French oak barrels for 14 months and carefully preserved on fine lees, responsible for the wine’s incredible unctuousness.
The bright yellow colour graced with green and golden tints displays an expressive bouquet of lemon, pear and mirabelle plum. Complex and generous on the palate, this wine reveals luscious aromas of tropical fruit, leading to a deliciously long, delicately acidulous finish. This cuvée offers several years of ageing potential.