Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard River Malbec 2018 is a profoundly expressive single-parcel wine sourced from the River plot within the legendary Adrianna Vineyard in Gualtallary, high in the Uco Valley, Mendoza. Floral, exuberant, and deeply layered, this is a wine capable of being enjoyed young or aged gracefully for decades. A true collector's wine from Argentina's most influential winery.

Why You'll Love It

The Adrianna Vineyard is often referred to as the Grand Cru of South America, and the River parcel is among its most distinctive and celebrated plots. Sitting on an ancient riverbed completely covered with oval white stones coated in calcium carbonate, the terroir provides exceptional drainage and extreme temperature variation: the stones absorb heat during the day and release it at night, acting almost like ice after very cold nights. At 1,366 metres above sea level, this remarkable environment produces Malbec of striking aromatic intensity, richness, and elegance that is simply not replicable anywhere else on earth.

Meet the Producer

Catena Zapata is Argentina's most influential winery, internationally recognised for pioneering high-altitude viticulture and redefining Malbec's global reputation. The Adrianna Vineyard has been studied parcel by parcel to reveal the profound influence of soil, altitude, and microclimate on wine character, and the River Malbec is the finest expression of that decades-long research.

Vineyard and Production

Grapes are hand-harvested from the 2.6-hectare River parcel at 1,366 metres above sea level. Fermentation takes place using wild yeasts in a combination of 225-litre oak barrels and 500-litre French oak roll-fermenters over approximately 17 days, with a maximum fermentation temperature of 25 to 30 degrees Celsius and maceration lasting 10 to 15 days. The wine is aged for 20 months in French oak, with the exact regime tailored to the characteristics of the vintage, allowing the purity of fruit and terroir expression to remain paramount throughout.

Tasting Notes

Highly aromatic and expressive, the River Malbec displays floral notes alongside dark berries and subtle mineral and metallic nuances. The palate is rich and luxurious yet finely balanced, with vibrant acidity, smooth elongated tannins, and remarkable length. The finish is precise, refined, and persistent, showcasing both power and finesse in equal measure.

Perfect Pairings

An outstanding partner for premium cuts of beef, slow-cooked lamb, venison, and richly flavoured mushroom dishes. Also exceptional alongside aged hard cheeses and fine charcuterie. A wine for special occasions and fine dining. Ageing potential: 20 or more years under proper cellar conditions.

The Blend

100% Malbec. 

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