2023 Catena Zapata High Mountain Vines Malbec, Mendoza

Catena Zapata High Mountain Vines Malbec from Mendoza captures the grandeur of Argentina’s high altitude vineyards in a vivid, generous and deeply expressive style. Nicolás Catena pioneered the idea of planting Malbec at extreme elevations in the Andes, convinced that altitude would bring finesse, lift and complexity. Today, the High Mountain Vines bottling draws from several of Catena’s top estate vineyards between 900 and 1500 metres, including parcels in Gualtallary, Vista Flores and El Cepillo. These sites sit on ancient alluvial soils of gravel, limestone, sand and volcanic stones, where dramatic day night temperature swings deliver concentration alongside remarkable freshness.

Malbec thrives here. Thin air, intense sunlight and cool alpine nights produce berries of great colour, thick skins, and precise natural acidity. Catena’s team farms each parcel according to its own microclimate and soil structure, some biodynamically, always with a focus on balance and purity. Harvesting is done in small, carefully timed passes. In the cellar, fruit is handled with restraint. Fermentation takes place in a mix of small tanks and concrete, using native yeasts when possible. French oak ageing, predominantly seasoned, layers in texture and savoury detail while letting the vineyard voices speak.

The aromatics are powerful and evocative. Black cherry, blackberry and plum leap from the glass alongside violet, dried rose, clove and mountain herbs. Beneath the fruit lie deeper notes of cocoa, graphite, tobacco leaf and a stony, high altitude mineral scent. As the wine opens, suggestions of blueberry compote, licorice and warm spice add further dimension.

On the palate, the wine is both plush and poised. Concentrated dark fruit glides across velvety, finely structured tannins. Flavours of black cherry, cassis, spiced plum and blueberry unfurl into cocoa, cedar, dried herbs and a cool mineral undercurrent. There is richness, yet the vibrant acidity from altitude keeps everything lifted and energetic. The finish lingers with dark fruit, violet, spice and a touch of graphite. With five to ten years in the cellar, the wine will gain more savoury depth and tertiary complexity.

This style excels with grilled steak, slow braised beef, barbecued lamb, venison, earthy vegetable dishes, charcuterie, aged hard cheeses or dark chocolate desserts. It is equally satisfying shared on its own.