Bodega Catena Zapata Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2023 750ml

This has an intriguing combination of violets, crushed stones, underripe plums and a subtle touch of pepper on the nose. The palate is firm, with blue fruit, tight focused tannins and impressive concentration and depth. Structured yet long and beautiful. So harmonious. Drink now or hold.

A decidedly riper and more forward style than many of Catena Zapata's offerings, the 2023 Malbec Argentino combines ungrafted massal selections from two polar-opposite vineyard sources: the Angélica Vineyard in Maipú's Lunlunta district and Paraje Altamira's Nicasia Vineyard. It was vinified entirely in foudre with 20% whole clusters and aged for 12 months. The nose is deep and dark-fruited, welcomely lifted by a lovely floral component that builds with oxygen exposure. On the palate, it is velvety and rich yet impressively buoyant, transitioning to an explosive, ripe and powerful finish dominated by luscious fruits.

The 2023 Malbec Argentino is intense on the nose, with defined, clear and expressive red fruit aromas of cherry and plum. This has fine-grained tannins, soft, chalky texture and compact grip. The finish is all fruit, juicy and bright. The 2023 handles the vintage with vibrant energy. Drink 2025-2043.