Catena Alta Malbec — Tasting Notes
Catena Alta Malbec is a premium, high‑altitude Argentine Malbec from Bodega Catena Zapata, blending fruit from historic vineyard rows across Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. It is known for its complexity, balance, and long aging potential.
2020 Vintage (Gismondi on Wine)
- Appearance & Nose: Full‑bodied black plum and blackberry, streaked with licorice and mineral notes; savoury floral hints from wild fermentation.
- Palate: Dense, rich, silky tannins with moderate alcohol (13.8%).
- Structure: Natural acidity, wild yeast fermentation, 12–18 months in French oak.
- Food Pairing: Ideal with steak or rich vegetable dishes.
- Cellaring: Will age gracefully through 2027.
2019 Historic Rows (Gismondi on Wine)
- Style: Elegant, aromatic, with violet, blueberry, and jarilla (wildflower) character.
- Palate: Red and blue fruits, substantial mid‑palate weight, rich tannins.
- Winemaking: 18 months in 70% new oak, 24 months bottle aging; unfined/unfiltered.
- Cellaring: Excellent for the next five years.
2023 Vintage (Winebow)
- Aromas: Cassis, violets, blackcurrant, blackberries, licorice, vanilla, leather, black pepper.
- Palate: Silky finish with minerality, fine tannins, lively acidity.
- Production: Assemblage from Angélica, La Pirámide, Nicasia, Angélica Sur, and Adrianna vineyards; 18 months in French oak, unfined/unfiltered.
Common Sensory Themes Across Vintages
- Fruit: Black and blue berries, plum, cassis, violet.
- Floral/Other: Violets, licorice, mineral, leather, vanilla.
- Texture: Silky tannins, balanced acidity, full body.
- Aging: Longevity of 10–20 years from release; best drinking from 3 years post‑harvest.
