Catena Zapata 'Nicolas Catena Zapata' 2019

*Will arrive within 2 - 4 business days.*

The Catena family's unwavering vision is to discover those enchanting pockets within their vineyards that truly articulate the essence of the land. Through meticulous manual farming and individual vine care, certain plants have emerged as consistently yielding the finest fruit. These exceptional Zapata vines are distinguished by a red sash, signifying the utmost precision in their cultivation. The grapes are hand-harvested in multiple stages, then gently loaded into French oak barrels for a lengthy, cool fermentation, with cap management done by hand. This meticulous process involves over 200 distinct micro-fermentations, distinguished by various lots and harvest times.

In its inaugural 1997 vintage, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec set a new benchmark for South American wines, triumphing in blind tastings against esteemed First Growth Bordeaux and other globally renowned cuvées. The Nicolas Catena comprises 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec, and 28% Cabernet Franc. Fermented in vertical open barriques and stainless steel tanks for 20 days, it is then transferred to 100% new French oak barrels for a maturation period of 12 to 18 months. Merging grapes from Gualtallary and Paraje Altamira, it exudes refinement, grace, and nuance, with tasteful oak influence. This red possesses the acidity, structure, and detailed, fine-grained tannins essential for aging. With flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cassis, and blackcurrant leaf, it stands as a world-class masterpiece.