Nicolas Catena Zapata 2005 - 750 ml

The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2019 is an iconic wine from the renowned Catena Zapata house, one of the most prestigious producers in Argentina, renowned for its high-quality wines. This Malbec is a pure product of the Argentine terroir, coming from the high altitudes of the Andes, in the region of Mendoza , which is the birthplace of Malbec. This wine embodies the elegance and power of this emblematic grape variety, with a complexity that distinguishes it among the best Malbecs in the country.

Main features :

• Grape Variety : This wine is made from 100% Malbec , a grape variety that has found its most refined expression in Argentina. Malbec is renowned for its black fruit aromas, velvety texture and powerful but ripe tannins. This wine reflects all the depth and concentration that this grape variety can achieve under optimal growing conditions.

• Region : The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2019 comes from vineyards located at exceptional altitudes, mainly in the Catena Zapata family vineyards , which are located at altitudes of 900 to 1,500 meters above sea level in the Uco Valley in Mendoza. These special conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly and accumulate a high concentration of flavors and polyphenols, while maintaining a freshness and acidity necessary for the balance of the wine.

• Vintage : The 2019 vintage was marked by moderate temperatures and slow vegetative growth, favoring prolonged maturation and a harvest at perfect maturity. This vintage produced wines rich in aromas and structure, with a beautiful freshness that perfectly balances the power of the Malbec.

Sensory profile :

• Color : The 2019 Malbec Argentino has an intense purple color, almost black, with violet reflections. The color is deep and reflects well the concentration and richness of the wine.

• Nose : The nose is very expressive and complex, with dominant aromas of ripe black fruits such as cassis , blackberry and blueberry , characteristic of Malbec. There are also notes of violet , tobacco , dark chocolate , as well as touches of sweet spices (vanilla, cinnamon) and a subtle note of garrigue . With age, deeper and more woody aromas, such as notes of roasted coffee and prune , can develop.

• Palate : On the palate, this wine is full , fleshy and dense , with a tannic structure that is both powerful and silky . The tannins are round , well integrated and perfectly support a structure that combines concentration and freshness . The flavors of black fruits dominate, accompanied by spicy and slightly smoky notes, with a touch of dark chocolate in the background. The finish is long , persistent, marked by a beautiful minerality and a freshness that balances the richness of the fruit.

Breeding :

The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2019 is aged in French oak barrels , some of which are new, for approximately 18 months . This oak aging process gives the wine additional complexity and allows it to meld, soften the tannins and integrate the woody aromas. The oak brings notes of vanilla , cocoa and smoke , while respecting the expression of the fruit.

Aging potential :

The 2019 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino is a wine that is built to last, with excellent aging potential . It can be enjoyed now for its richness and structure, but it will continue to evolve in the cellar for 10 to 15 years, or even longer. As it ages, it will develop even deeper aromas of coffee , prunes and truffles , while retaining its beautiful freshness .

Food and wine pairings :

The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2019 is a very versatile wine that pairs perfectly with a wide range of dishes, especially those of Argentine-Uruguayan cuisine, but also more universal dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Red Meats : This Malbec pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted meats, such as prime rib , silverside steak , lamb chops or even duck breast .
• Dishes in sauce : It also goes well with dishes in sauce such as beef stew , cassoulet or bolognese .
• Mature cheeses : It is excellent with hard or mature cheeses , such as Parmesan , Comté or even sheep's cheese .
• Argentine cuisine : It goes perfectly with traditional Argentine dishes such as asados ​​(grilled meats), empanadas or even morcilla .

Summary :

The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2019 is a wine of great intensity , complexity and elegance . It perfectly captures the expression of the Malbec grape in the high altitudes of Mendoza, with a beautiful concentration of black fruits, aromas of spices , chocolate and vanilla , as well as a freshness that balances the richness of the wine. This Malbec is an excellent example of what Argentina can offer in terms of high quality wines, with great aging potential. It is a perfect wine for lovers of powerful and elegant wines, which will pair well with a wide range of dishes.