From: Mendoza, Argentina
Varietal: Malbec
Tasting Notes and Critical Acclaim: “The range of appellation wines from 2021 is very fresh and balanced, clean and precise, as can be seen in the juicy but serious 2021 Appellation La Consulta Malbec, which was produced with grapes from vines planted in 1996 on alluvial soils. This is still young and a little marked by the élevage in barrel, with spices and some creaminess, and it has the mineral sensation and fine tannins that this wine always has. It has black fruit and an earthy twist.” 92 Points, Wine Advocate, Nov-2022
“Juicy and inviting, with heavy citrus nuances to the vibrant black cherry and berry flavors, revealing a trace of red licorice underneath and a light toasty brambly edge to the finish around fine tannins.” – (Smart Buy) 90 Points, Wine Spectator, Nov-2023
Pairing: Traditional Argentine favorites such as grilled Argentine ribeye with chimichurri and empanadas filled with beef and olives complement the wine’s deep fruit profile and its mineral, earthy notes. For a contemporary American twist, pair it with smoked brisket sliders or a classic mushroom and Swiss cheeseburger, which balance the wine's vibrant citrus nuances and toasty finish. Additionally, the wine’s fine tannins and black fruit character make it an ideal match for savory dishes like braised short ribs or herb-roasted lamb, both of which will enhance its complexity and spice-driven depth.
Chimichurri Hanger Steak
By Florence Fabricant
About. The story of Bodega Catena Zapata is synonymous with the rise of Argentine wine on the global stage. This journey began over a century ago and is now led by Nicolás Catena Zapata. He is widely credited for revolutionizing the country's wine industry with his focus on quality and innovation. The legacy began in 1902, when his grandfather, Nicola Catena, planted his first Malbec vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina, where the grape was primarily used for blending in Bordeaux. Nicola had a vision that the grape would thrive in the Andean foothills, though it would take decades for this vision to manifest fully.
Bodega Catena Zapata's wines come from six historic estate vineyards, including La Pirámide, Angélica, and Nicasia, embody the family’s philosophy of honoring tradition while embracing innovation. Nicolás’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of vine cultivation in the Uco Valley, particularly in Gualtallary Alto, was met with skepticism. However, once considered too inhospitable, the high-altitude vineyards produced Malbecs that redefined the possibilities of Argentine wine.
Nicolás’s relentless pursuit of excellence and willingness to defy convention have earned him numerous accolades, including Decanter's Man of the Year and recognition from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. Under his leadership, the Catena family has transformed Argentine wine from a bulk product into a symbol of world-class craftsmanship, securing a place for Malbec and Mendoza on the world’s wine map.
The Catena Appellation La Consulta Malbec showcases the family's commitment to high-altitude viticulture and meticulous winemaking techniques. The grapes are sourced from the La Consulta Vineyard’s 35 year old vines, situated at 3,592 feet in the Uco Valley, where intense sunlight and cool nights contribute to the wine's hallmark deep purple color and rich aromatics. The vineyard’s alluvial soils, composed of 80% sand, 10% clay, and 10% silt, are ideal for producing concentrated, well- structured Malbec. After cold maceration at 50oF for 2-5 days, the wine undergoes fermentation for 8-14 days, followed by a post-fermentation maceration lasting 3-10 days. The wine is then aged for 6-8 months in French oak, with 15-35% new, second, and third-use barrels, enhancing its velvety tannins and complex flavor profile.
