2021 CATENA ZAPATA MALBEC, ADRIANNA RIVER STONES VINEYARD, GUALTALLARY MENDOZA ARGENTINA

The 2021 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard 'River Stones' Malbec from Gualtallary, Mendoza, Argentina, is a testament to the exceptional terroir of the Adrianna Vineyard and the meticulous craftsmanship of Bodega Catena Zapata.

Tasting Notes:

• Aroma: Floral notes with subtle hints of leather and berries.
• Palate: Displays a purple hue with a bright sheen, offering a fleshy and seamless texture with flavors of bitter cherry, boysenberry, and violet pastille, enlivened by a spicy nuance.

Accolades:

• Wine Advocate: 100 points — "There is an unusual stony austerity in the 2021 Adrianna Vineyard River, cropped from a cold year when the full clusters fermented in concrete with a slightly shorter maceration and an élevage in a 2,000-liter oak foudre and the rest in stainless steel. It has a moderate 13.4% alcohol with very high acidity (8.2!) and a low pH (3.37), incredible parameters that point at great freshness and a long life in bottle."
• Vinous Media: 98 points — "The 2021 Malbec Adrianna Vineyard River originates from a small stony plot nestled in an ancient riverbed in Gualtallary, Uco Valley, situated at an elevation of 1,400 meters. It was carefully aged for up to 16 months in foudres and concrete vats. It displays a purple hue with a bright sheen."

Winemaking Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Malbec.
• Region: Gualtallary, Mendoza, Argentina.
• Vineyard: Adrianna Vineyard, specifically the 'River Stones' parcel, characterized by stony soils that contribute to the wine's unique minerality.
• Fermentation: Whole clusters fermented in concrete with a slightly shorter maceration

is Malbec pairs exquisitely with grilled meats, particularly Argentine asado, rich stews, and aged cheeses, enhancing the wine's depth and complexity.