2021 Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard Malbec

Brand	Catena Zapata Wines
Region	Medoc Cru Bourgeois, Bordeaux
Varietal	Malbec
Size	750ml
Alcohol %	13.7%
Vintage	2021
Country	Argentina

The Nicasia Vineyard is situated in the Uco Valley, Mendoza, a region famous for the highest vineyards in the world (1095m) and for producing some of the best Malbecs worldwide. No wonder this has become Argentina’s signature variety which they champion. 10% whole cluster and 90% whole berry fruit is hand-loaded into 225-500 liter new French oak barrels for a 100%-barrel fermentation for a period of 17 days, allowing seamless oak integration. The fermentation temperature is kept low, extracting intense aromas, and the cap management is done by hand to ensure soft, gentle flavours and tannin extraction. Only wild yeast are involved and the wine is aged in French oak barrels for 24 months, followed by 24 months of ageing in the bottle before release.

A floral and perfumed nose with notes of rose petals, blackberry, blueberry, graphite and dark chocolate with a spicy, chalky, earthy thread.

a wine that’s initially plush then a transition into a taut, chalky wine whilst showing some elegance yet has great depth, power and varietal typicity. A wonderful core of dark, dense fruit runs throughout and speaks of the limestone soils in which the vines grow. Fruit is layered on top of the chalky, mineral, textural mid-palate harmonised by the brisk, vibrant acidity. A suave, sophisticated wine and one for the cellar for 8-10years+ and serve with all high-quality beef. The recommended serving temperature is 16-18 degrees.