Catena Appellation Lunlunta Malbec 2021 – 750ml Winebow

92pts Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

The 2021 Appellation Lunlunta Malbec was produced with grapes from vines planted in 1930 at 920 meters in altitude. It fermented with full malolactic and had an élevage of six to eight months in barrels, some 40% of them new. The cool year kept the alcohol to a moderate 13.5% with the depth and wisdom from old vines that somehow transmit a sense of harmony. This classical zone in Maipú produces traditional Malbecs with varietal typicity, floral with berries and herbs and a touch of sweet spices, fresh and balanced with some earthy rusticity and juicy fruit.

92pts James Suckling

A pretty fruity malbec here with a hint of dark olives, spices and strawberries. Lots of fruit on the fleshy, medium-bodied palate with sleek but present tannins.

Winemaker Notes

The Lunlunta shows a deep violet color with purple reflections. The nose offers concentrated aromas of ripe red and dark fruits with traces of vanilla and mocha. The mouthfeel is rich and concentrated, with blueberries and blackberries notes and a touch of leather and cinnamon. The finish presents well integrated supple tannins with a flinty minerality that gives the wine exceptional length.

The Catena Lunlunta perfectly pairs with smoked meats and cheeses and equally well with braises, roasts or grilled meats and fowl. Perfect for a light dinner or a substantial meal, it is an extremely versatile wine that can be enjoyed with or without food.

Winery Notes

Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina’s high altitude Malbec pioneers. The Catena family began making wine in Mendoza in 1902. Nicolas Catena, third generation family vintner, was one of the first to see the potential of Mendoza’s mountain vineyards for producing high quality Malbec. In 1994, he became the first Argentine to exprot a world-class bottling of Malbec under the Catena label. Nicolas is joined by his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family’s high altitude vineyards. Laura has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. Head winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, has been at Catena Zapata since 2002 and works with Laura and Nicolas to make wines that express the family’s vineyards and palate.