Catena Zapata
History
Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena in Mendoza, Argentina. In the 1980s, Dr. Nicolás Catena Zapata revolutionized Argentine wine by focusing on quality, not just quantity. He pioneered the idea that high-altitude vineyards could produce world-class Malbec — at a time when Malbec was nearly forgotten globally.
Winemaking Philosophy
- Focuses on terroir expression: using grapes from distinct high-altitude sites (3,000–5,000+ feet) in Mendoza.
- Believes altitude = cooler climate, better acidity, more aromatic complexity, and longer aging potential.
- Combines modern techniques (temperature control, precision viticulture) with traditional methods (hand-harvesting, French oak aging).
Signature Wines
- Catena Malbec – Benchmark entry-level Malbec, showcasing fruit purity and balance.
- Catena Alta – Single-vineyard selections, higher quality and aging potential.
- Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino – Iconic label, artistic bottle, deep and age-worthy.
- Nicolás Catena Zapata – Flagship Bordeaux-style blend, often compared to First Growths.
- Adrianna Vineyard Wines – From their highest-altitude vineyard (5,000 ft+), considered “Grand Cru of South America” (e.g. White Stones Chardonnay, Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec).
Recognition
- Often credited as the driving force behind Argentina’s rise to world-class wine status.
- Catena Zapata was named World’s Most Admired Wine Brand (2020) by Drinks International.
- Nicolás Catena Zapata and his daughter, Laura Catena, are seen as pioneers of Argentine fine wine globally.
