Nicolás Catena Zapata revolutionized the wine industry by daring to plant vines where no one thought they would ripen. His high-altitude wine revolution culminated in the discovery of a new terroir for wine, the Adrianna Vineyard, at almost 5,000 feet. The soil composition of the Adrianna Vineyard is a mix of calcium carbonate covered stones and gravel, as well as, layers of limestone that have an important impact on the flavors and balance of the wines that come from said vineyard. Each of the Catena Zapata family vineyards is divided into parcels according to their soil composition. These parcels are farmed individually, with an eye on encouraging their most authentic fruit expression.
At Catena Zapata the terroir seems to be an ongoing science experiment and Catena’s Adrianna’s vineyard is hands down the most researched vineyard in the world. This had led to breakthroughs in winemaking that are sure to influence generations of winemakers to follow.
We were lucky to be invited to an exclusive tasting at La Bodega de Mendez featuring 95-100 point wines from the Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard collection. The lineup featured the White Bones 2013 (98 pts), Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2012 (98 pts), Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae 2011 (98 points), the Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae 2012 (100pts), and Nicolas Catena Zapata 2010 (95pts). La Bódega de Méndez’s sommelier Eduardo Dumont guided us through the history of Catena Zapata and gave us a tour for the senses of the Adrianna Vineyard.
All the wines were spectacular and would be a great addition to any wine cellar. However, the following blew our minds:
Fortuna Terrae 2012: This single vineyard wine has been produced for several years, but this is the first time it has been commercially released. This full bodied and firm Malbec has silky tannins and mind-blowing depth and balance. Nicknamed the La Tâche of Argentina this is a must for wine collectors. Drink now through 2047.
White Bones 2013: What can I say about this seductive terroir based Chardonnay? Floral on the nose, sophisticated and complex on the palate showing exotic soft citrus fruits, a smoky mineral flavor. Nicknamed the Montrachet of Argentina, this fatty chardonnay is one for the books. Drink now through 2047.
Mundus Bacillus Terrae 2011: This gorgeous Malbec is co-fermented with Viognier. It is a structured wine with lots of tannin and acidity. Mineral, earthy and floral, its simply perfect. Drink now through 2047.
The wine tasting was followed by a delicious lunch with dishes from the Bite menu at La Bódega de Méndez. To get your hands on these amazing wines visit La Bódega de Méndez.
