2022 Catena - Malbec Argentino (750ml)

Bodega Catena Zapata traces its roots to 1902, when the Catena family first began making wine in Mendoza. Nicolás Catena later became a pioneer of high-altitude viticulture in the region, and in 1994 he was the first Argentine producer to export a world-class Malbec under his own name. Today his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, leads the estate alongside winemaker Alejandro Vigil, continuing decades of research into the soils and microclimates of Mendoza's mountain vineyards.

Malbec Argentino draws on fruit from two contrasting sites, the warmer La Consulta district and the higher, cooler Paraje Altamira, with a portion of the grapes fermented as whole clusters. The wine then spends up to twelve months aging in French oak barrels, a process that builds a creamy texture and softly integrated structure while preserving the natural concentration of the fruit.

The wine pours a deep violet color and offers aromas of violet, plum, and dark berry fruit, layered with subtle smoke and baking spice. On the palate it is rich and velvety, with plush tannins and bright acidity that keep the finish lifted rather than heavy. It pairs well with roasted lamb, grilled portobello, or aged Manchego.