Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino SPECIAL VINTAGE 2004 – The First Legend of Malbec

Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino SPECIAL VINTAGE 2004 – A true icon, the first vintage of Argentino Malbec, a historic masterpiece that captures the essence of world-class Malbec. This exclusive, limited edition hails from the renowned Adrianna and Nicasia vineyards, two of the most prestigious terroirs in the Uco Valley. Adrianna Vineyard, located in the Gualtallary District (Tupungato, Mendoza) at 1,450 meters above sea level, with superficial gravelly soils, and Nicasia Vineyard in the La Consulta District (Valle de Uco, Mendoza) at 1,095 meters above sea level, with a very shallow loamy soil and gravelly dry streambed subsoil, ensuring exceptional drainage.

The increased intensity of sunlight during the warm, dry spring and summer contributed to thicker skins and higher polyphenol content, adding further concentration to the fruit. The cool nights in March allowed for a slow, gradual ripening, imparting intricate floral and black pepper notes to the wine.

The winemaking process included cold maceration for 5 days in 225L vertical oak barrels and 500L French oak roller fermenters, at temperatures below 10°C. Fermentation occurred over 18 days in open vertical oak barrels and 500L French oak roller fermenters, with temperatures not exceeding 28-30°C, followed by manual punchdowns for 28-30 days. The wine underwent complete malolactic fermentation and was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. With an alcohol content of 14.0% ABV, TA of 5.7 g/l, and a pH of 3.72, it remains a legendary wine.

In the glass, it reveals a deep purple color with violet reflections. On the nose, it unleashes an explosion of ripe black cherries, wild blackberries, and cassis, framed by violet, graphite, and dark chocolate aromas. The 18-month aging in French oak barrels imparts extraordinary complexity, with hints of sweet spices, espresso, tobacco, and fine leather. On the palate, it is broad, silky, and endlessly lingering, with firm tannins and vibrant acidity, promising an exceptional aging potential.

As the first vintage of Argentino Malbec, this wine is a milestone in the history of Argentine Malbec, offering a glimpse into the origins of one of the country’s finest wines. Initially perceived as warm, jammy, and oak-driven, it remains a beautiful reflection of its time—a wine that has evolved into an icon.

For a wine of this caliber, only the most refined pairings will do: roast rack of lamb with rosemary and garlic, grilled bone-in ribeye steak with chimichurri, or foie gras with black truffle reduction—dishes that echo the grandeur of this exceptional wine.

This SPECIAL VINTAGE 2004 is a once-in-a-lifetime gem, a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs of exceptional Argentine Malbec. Limited bottles available

• Producer: Catena Zapata
• Varietal: Malbec
• Origin: Viñedo Adrianna & Viñedo "Nicasia" (Distrito de La Consulta). Provincia de Mendoza, Argentina.
• Altitude (ASL): 1400 meters
• Aging / Barrel Aging: 24 months in 100% French Oak (100% new).