Catena Zapata, Mendoza (Argentina) Malbec 2008

This Malbec-predominant wine is from the “first family” of producers in Argentina.  The Catena family was integral in establishing Argentina as a world-class wine producer and this wine demonstrates why.  The wine is complex, concentrated, and luscious. The nose contains layers of spicy oak, mild herbs, underlying mineral, and copious fruit.  Raspberry, blueberry, blackberry — all macerated in quality — are framed by fine tannins, bright acidity, and full-bodied density.  While providing quite a punch, the wine never loses its finesse.  The duality is indicative of the complexity of the wine, and the deft winemaking involved.  This is a superb example of fine wine from Argentina.