Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina's high altitude Malbec pioneers. The Catena family began making wine in Mendoza in 1902. Nicolas Catena, third generation family vintner, was one of the first to see the potential of Mendoza's mountain vineyards for producing high quality Malbec. In 1994, he became the first Argentine to export a world-class bottling of Malbec under the Catena label. Nicolas is joined by his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family's high altitude vineyards. Laura has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. Head winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, has been at Catena Zapata since 2002 and works with Laura and Nicolas to make wines that express the family's vineyards and palate.

WINE DESCRIPTION
Family vintners for over 100 years, the Catenas are recognized for their pioneering role in high-altitude viticulture and in leading Argentina’s Malbec revolution. In the 1950s, Don Domingo Catena began sourcing Malbec from the vineyards of La Consulta. The combination of intense sunlight and cool nights yields a wine that Domingo prized for its deep purple color, black fruit aromatics and rich velvety tannins.

VINIFICATION
This wine goes through cold maceration for 2-5 days at 50ºF (10ºC). The juice is then fermented for 8-14 days with a post-fermentation maceration of approximately 3-10 days. Elevage: 6-8 months in 100% French Oak barrel. 15-35% new, second and third use barrels.

VINEYARDS
La Consulta Vineyard (1095m/3592ft). Alluvial origin. Loamy soil, with rounded rocks on the bottom (80% Sand - 10% Clay - 10% Silt)

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Varietal: 100% Malbec
Alcohol: 13.5%
Total Acidity: 5.95 grams/liter
pH: 3.6

B-19