Bodega Catena Zapata : "Catena Alta" Chardonnay 2023

Tasting characteristics and serving advice for Catena Alta Chardonnay 2023 from Bodega Catena Zapata

Tasting

Appearance
The wine shows an intense yellow color with bright golden highlights.

Nose
The bouquet reveals remarkable complexity, with aromas of ripe white fruits such as pear and peach, accompanied by notes of fresh citrus and delicate floral touches of jasmine. A subtle mineral dimension completes this aromatic palette.

Palate
On the palate, this Chardonnay unveils rich, concentrated flavors of ripe pear, crisp apple, and apricot, supported by lovely freshness and a defined texture. The finish stands out for its exceptional length and complexity, with a crisp, mineral acidity characteristic of the vintage.

Food and wine pairings

This Catena Alta Chardonnay 2023 pairs perfectly with full-bodied fish such as salmon or tuna, dishes with creamy sauces, or lobster Thermidor. Its structure also allows it to accompany poultry in sauce.

Serving and cellaring

Catena Alta Chardonnay 2023 can be enjoyed now but has exceptional aging potential, and is expected to be one of the most age‑worthy vintages in recent years. It is best served at 50–54°F (10–12°C).

A high-altitude Argentine Chardonnay from exceptional Mendoza terroirs

The estate

Bodega Catena Zapata, established in 1902 in Mendoza, represents the pinnacle of Argentine high‑altitude viticulture. Now led by Laura Catena, the fourth generation, the estate spearheaded Malbec’s renaissance and advanced oenological research through the Catena Institute created in 1995. Its Andean vineyards — including Adrianna, named the world’s best vineyard in 2023 — attest to a scientific pursuit of extreme terroirs. The iconic winery’s Mayan‑inspired pyramidal architecture overlooks six historic estates.

The vineyard

Catena Alta Chardonnay 2023 comes from selected historic parcels within the family’s high‑altitude vineyards in Mendoza. The Adrianna Vineyard, lot 1, reaches 4,757 feet (1,450 meters) above sea level on gravelly alluvial soils with surface limestone deposits. The Domingo Vineyard, lot 7, lies at 3,675 feet (1,120 meters) on soils entirely covered with gravel and a loamy, calcareous topsoil. Dijon clones and the Mendoza Selection make up the plant material.

The vintage

The 2023 vintage in Argentina was marked by spring frosts from October to November that reduced yields. A very dry season, slightly warmer than average, led to an early harvest, 2 to 4 weeks ahead. These low yields resulted in an elegant style characterized by high natural acidity, moderate alcohol levels, and pronounced minerality.

Winemaking and aging

Whole clusters of Catena Alta Chardonnay 2023 are gently pressed before full fermentation in 500‑liter French barrels with indigenous yeasts at low temperature for 12 to 24 days. Moderate bâtonnage is performed on the lees, while 30% of the wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation. Aging takes place on the lees for 10 to 14 months in first‑, second‑, and third‑use French barrels.

Grape variety

100% Chardonnay.