The Catena wines are a special assemblage of High Mountain Estate Vineyards made by fourth generation vintner, Laura Catena and chief winemaker, Alejandro Vigil. Through decades of study and exploration within Mendoza’s high altitude mountain terroirs, the Catena family has identified special locations for its Estate vineyards. From the marriage of these historic vineyards emerges wines of unique character that has natural balance, concentration and a distinct varietal identity.
Catena Malbec 2019 – 93 pts Robert Parker
TASTING NOTES
The Catena Malbec presents a deep violet color with purple reflections. This microclimate blend of four unique vineyards offers intense aroma, soft texture and concentrated flavor. Deep aromas of ripe red and dark fruits are joined by delicate violet and lavender notes, with traces of vanilla and mocha. A rich, concentrated mouthfeel is highlighted by flavors of blueberries and blackberries with a touch of leather and cinnamon. The wine has well integrated tannins, bright acidity and a flinty minerality that provides exceptional length to the finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Pair with roast turkey, grilled steak, salmon, and pasta with red sauce.
VINIFICATION
This wine goes through an extensive cold maceration for 5 days at 48ºF (8,8ºC) to extract aromas. The juice is then fermented for 12 days with a post-fermentation maceration of 19-22 days. Wild Yeasts. Elevage: 12 months in barrel. Barrel selection varies depending on vineyard and vintage – First, second and third use barrels used.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Varietal: 100% Malbec
Alcohol: 13.5%
Total Acidity: 5.65 grams/liter
pH: 3.65
Catena Chardonnay 2020 – 92 pts James Suckling
TASTING NOTES
The Catena Chardonnay combines the unique expressions of three high altitude vineyard sites. The wine shows an intense greenish color with yellow notes. The extraordinary combination of these vineyards offer honey and tropical fruit flavors while lending notes of citrus, pears, peaches, and white flowers with a strong minerality and a note of vanilla. The mouthfeel is clean, with a fresh, clean acidity.
FOOD PAIRING
This wine would be a fantastic companion a variety of poultry dishes, dishes finished with a Nantua sauce, or to a rich seafood dish like Shrimp and Herb Risotto.
VINIFICATION
Whole cluster pressed; fermented, sur lies, in barrels and stainless steel. Wild yeasts. Elevage: 6 to 8 months in French oak. Barrel selection varies depending on vineyard and vintage – First, Second and third use barrels used. 40% does not undergo malolactic fermentation.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 13.6%
Total Acidity: 5.65 grams/liter
pH: 3.3
Leave A Comment