Nicolas Catena Zapata 2008
Intense, dark violet color with bluish-black tones. Complex wine; super-ripe aromas of black cherry, dark chocolate, and licorice, enlivened by minerals, violet, pepper, and herbs. Then penetrating, sharply delineated, and impressively concentrated, with a serious backbone supporting its very fresh currant and mineral flavors. The vibrant, echoing finish suggests that this wine will have even more to say in a couple of years. Pairs well with rack of lamb, beef tenderloin, or rich cheeses.
65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Malbec. In 1902, Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant, planted his first vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina. Owned today by Nicolas Catena and his daughter Laura, Bodega Catena Zapata is one of the few family-owned wine companies in Argentina that remains in Argentine hands. The family's estate vineyards are located throughout the premier growing region of Mendoza. Nicolas believes this high-altitude terroir (3,000–5,000 feet above sea level) is unique to the world and the reality of this belief is expressed in every bottle of Catena wine crafted. Bodega Catena Zapata is also known as the pioneer of fine Argentinean wine and Nicolas is recognized as the vintner who revolutionized wine quality in Argentina.