Nicolas Catena was at the forefront of wine quality throughout the emergence of Argentine Malbec as a force in the world of fine wine. He once employed the esteemed winemaker Paul Hobbs, and the state-of-the-art winery is a shining testament to Catena’s ongoing commitment to improving the species. Hobbs now has his own winery in Mendoza, but the Catena winery has prospered and grown on its own. This vintage of the "High Mountain Vines" Malbec is rich and dense, with excellent persistence on the palate, wonderful balance and lovely blueberry and blackberry fruit framed with just the right touch of oak. Complex aromas of mocha and leather are subtle but inviting, and there is an intriguing savory note. At the price, an exceptional value.
Bodega Catena Zapata, Mendoza (Argentina) Malbec 2011
By Robert Whitley