An iconic Mendoza estate, Catena Zapata has profoundly reshaped the image of Argentine wine through its high-altitude Malbecs and Chardonnays, sourced from landmark vineyards such as Adrianna Vineyard, Nicasia and Angélica.

Catena Zapata — Argentina’s benchmark for high-altitude viticulture

Founded in 1902 in Mendoza, Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina’s most influential wine estates. Its story is closely linked to the rise of modern fine wine in Argentina, particularly through the vision of Nicolás Catena, who brought Malbec and Mendoza’s high-altitude terroirs to international prominence.

Today, under the guidance of Dr. Laura Catena, physician, scientist and heir to this remarkable family legacy, the estate continues to pursue an approach rooted in research, parcel precision and terroir expression. Catena Zapata is particularly renowned for its deep, refined Malbecs, as well as for its high-altitude Chardonnays from the emblematic Adrianna Vineyard.

History

The history of Catena Zapata begins with the arrival of the Catena family in Argentina and the founding of the bodega in the early twentieth century. Several generations later, Nicolás Catena played a decisive role in modernising Argentine wine, drawing inspiration from the world’s great wine regions while defending the singular identity of Mendoza. His search for cooler, high-altitude sites opened a new path for Argentine Malbec.

Terroir

Catena Zapata’s vineyards extend across several areas of Mendoza, with altitudes varying from site to site. The most prestigious parcels, such as Adrianna Vineyard in Gualtallary, benefit from cool nights, intense sunlight and distinctive limestone or stony soils. These conditions give the wines natural freshness, aromatic clarity and remarkable structure.

Viticulture and winemaking

The estate’s philosophy is based on the detailed study of soils, altitudes and microclimates. Vinification is carried out with a parcel-by-parcel approach, preserving the identity of each site. Native yeasts may be used depending on the cuvée, while ageing is carefully adjusted to support the wine’s structure without obscuring its origin.

Wine style

Catena Zapata wines stand out for their balance between ripeness, freshness and depth. The reds offer dense fruit, polished tannins and genuine cellaring potential, while the great Chardonnays from Adrianna Vineyard reveal a more mineral, saline and finely chiselled expression. The style remains precise, elegant and immediately recognisable.

Emblematic cuvées

Among the estate’s key wines are Nicolás Catena Zapata, the historic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, Malbec Argentino, and the great single-vineyard wines from Adrianna Vineyard. The Chardonnays White Stones and White Bones rank among the most sought-after white wines in South America. The range also includes DV Catena, Catena Alta, appellation wines and selected experimental expressions depending on the vintage.

Cellaring and food pairings

The great red cuvées of Catena Zapata have excellent ageing potential and pair beautifully with grilled beef, lamb, aged meats, gently spiced dishes and mature cheeses. The high-altitude Chardonnays, more mineral and saline in style, are superb with fine fish, shellfish, creamy poultry dishes, risottos and lightly truffled preparations.

In summary

Catena Zapata is an essential estate for understanding the greatness of contemporary Argentine wine. Through its work on altitude, soil research and international outlook, the estate has given Mendoza Malbec and Chardonnay a new dimension, admired by wine lovers and collectors alike.

Dominant aromas

Black fruits, plum, cassis, violet, sweet spices, graphite, cocoa and fresh herbs for the reds; citrus, yellow apple, white flowers, limestone, fine hazelnut and a saline finish for the great Chardonnays.