2017 Malbec Argentino
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Tasting notes
Cross-regional blend: from La Consulta in San Carlos (Nicasia Vineyard at 1,095 m) and Lunlunta in Maipú (Angélica Vineyard at 920 m). The label shows Eleanor of Aquitaine and female phylloxera. This is very much a Laura and Adrianna Catena production – they even put on a play telling the story at the wine's New York launch . Deep purple. Much richer and sweeter than the Nicolás Cabernet blend. Still quite dry tannins on the end. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino mixes grapes from 60% Altamira (Nicasia) and Lunlunta and shows a little riper than the pure Altamira from Nicasia vineyard. There is a note of raspberry that gives brightness to the aromas, and the palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and a fluid sensation that is quite remarkable for 2017. 22,800 bottles were filled in November 2018.
Sexy scents of red and black fruits, coffee and herbs. Dense, juicy and fine-grained, conveying terrific energy to its flavors of currant, chocolate and mocha. This is less thick than some of the new Malbec releases from Catena but it's still a bit youthfully imploded and in need of more time in bottle. But it has the dusty tannins and fresh supporting acidity to reward aging. In the early going, its penetrating character reminds me a bit of Cabernet. (60% from Nicasia Vineyard in Paraje Altamira and 40% from Angelica Vineyard in Lunlunta; Vigil describes this wine as "an old-vine blend--a mix of new and old _terroirs")
Lots of blackberry and blueberry aromas with licorice, too. Extremely aromatic. Full-bodied, layered and deep. Superb richness and balance, at the same time. Really great. Drink or hold.
About the producer
Bodega Catena Zapata has been instrumental both in the development of fine wine production in Argentina and in realising the full potential of the Malbec grape.