Although the Catena Zapata is in Argentina, its roots lie in Italy. In the early 20th century, the Catena family fled the famine in Italy, settled in Argentina and established a vineyard. It has been handed down through the generations and has seen a number of experiments over time. Nicolas Catena was the first person to introduce European vine growing techniques to Argentina and was a trailblazer in the vinification of Malbec and growing vines at altitude. The domaine owes its sound reputation to the cultivation and vinification of top-flight Malbecs and its innovative high-altitude Chardonnay production.

The grass is always greener somewhere else, and Malbec, when it comes from Argentina, is always better. Or so the Catena Zapata family would have us believe, cultivating their vines at the foot of the majestic Andes mountain range. And we’d be tempted to agree: the Fortuna Terrae plot, with its deep loamy soil and high altitude (around 1,300 metres), imparts balance, freshness and good acidity to the grapes.
To bring out the crispness and subtlety of the fruity aromas, the grapes first undergo cold maceration at less than 10 degrees Celsius, then ferment for between 13 and 19 days. The juices undergo a second post-fermentation maceration, before being matured in French oak casks for between 14 and 18 months.
The tasting experience lives up to expectations: the nose reveals a powerful floral bouquet, dominated by subtle notes of cherry and raspberry. This fruity intensity then takes over, immediately gripping the palate. The palate is further enlivened by hints of pepper, balsamic and cloves. Smoothness and perfectly blended tannins combine with a never-ending lingering finish.