Bodega Catena Zapata High Mountain Vines Malbec 2020

Bodega Catena Zapata High Mountain Vines Malbec is an expressive and vibrant red wine that showcases the unique character of high-altitude vineyards in Argentina’s Mendoza region. Crafted from carefully selected Malbec grapes grown in the foothills of the Andes, this wine is known for its intense fruit flavors and excellent structure. On the nose, it offers enticing aromas of blackberries, ripe plums, and violets, alongside hints of black pepper, leather, and mocha. On the palate, it is full-bodied with velvety tannins and refreshing acidity, offering flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and a touch of spice. The long finish reveals mineral undertones, making it a well-balanced and elegant expression of Malbec.

Wine Details:
Type: Red Wine
Style: Full-bodied, Fruit-forward Red
Grape Varietal: Malbec
Taste Like: Like Cabernet Sauvignon, but with softer tannins, floral notes, and a richer, juicier black fruit character.
Alcohol Percentage: 13.5%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Mendoza
Region: Uco Valley, Mendoza
Region Location: Argentina
Country: Argentina
Terroir: The Malbec grapes are grown in high-altitude vineyards (900 to 1,500 meters) on rocky, well-draining soils. The high altitude contributes to the wine’s natural acidity and mineral complexity, while the cool nights preserve the freshness of the fruit.
Aging: Aged for 12-14 months in French oak barrels, which adds subtle hints of vanilla and spice without overwhelming the fruit flavors.
Farming: Sustainable farming practices are employed to protect the environment and enhance the quality of the vineyards.

Serving Temperature:
16-18°C - Serve slightly below room temperature to allow the wine’s vibrant fruit and structure to shine.

Winery:
Bodega Catena Zapata is one of the leading names in Argentine winemaking, known for their innovative high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza. The winery’s commitment to producing world-class Malbec has earned it international recognition. The High Mountain Vines Malbec is a reflection of this expertise, offering a bold and expressive wine that captures the essence of Argentina’s unique terroir.

Dishes this wine pairs with:
Grilled Meats: Perfect with grilled steaks, lamb chops, or smoky BBQ beef ribs.
Beef Empanadas: Pairs well with the savory, spiced filling of traditional Argentine empanadas.
Slow-cooked Beef: Complements braised short ribs or beef stew.
Duck: Great with roasted or grilled duck with a dark fruit sauce.
Asian Cuisine: Works well with Mongolian beef or stir-fried dishes with hoisin sauce.
Australian BBQ: Ideal with chargrilled kangaroo or lamb cutlets.
Cheeses this wine pairs with:
Aged Manchego (Spain): The firm, nutty texture of Manchego complements the richness of Malbec.
Pyengana Cheddar (Australia): The sharp, aged cheddar brings out the fruit and spice in the wine.
Brie (France): The creamy texture of Brie pairs nicely with the wine’s smooth tannins and black fruit notes.
Gorgonzola (Italy): The bold and salty flavors of Gorgonzola enhance the wine’s earthy and fruity character.
Aged Gouda (Netherlands): The caramelized, nutty flavors of aged Gouda complement the wine’s dark fruit and mocha notes.
These pairings will elevate the wine’s rich fruit, smooth tannins, and vibrant structure, making it a great match for both grilled dishes and flavorful cheeses.