Catena Malbec

HIGH MOUNTAIN ESTATE VINEYARDS

The Catena wines are a special assemblage of High Mountain Estate Vineyards made by fourth generation vintner, Laura Catena and chief winemaker, Alejandro Vigil. Although we have found that most of the Catena wines are consumed shortly after release, we are pleased to see that they age beautifully for ten to twenty years. Through decades of study and exploration within Mendoza’s high altitude mountain terroirs, the Catena family has identified special locations for its Estate vineyards. From the marriage of these historic vineyards emerges a wine of unique character that has natural balance, concentration, and a distinct varietal identity.

VINIFICATION

This wine goes through an extensive cold maceration for 5 days at 48ºF (8,8ºC) to extract aromas. The juice is then fermented for approximately 10-16 days with a total maceration of 19-22 days. Wild Yeasts. Elevage: 11-13 months in French oak barrel. Barrel selection varies depending on vineyard and vintage – First, second and third use barrels used.

VINEYARDS

A Blend of Three Vineyards – vineyards are divided into lots that are harvested at different times:

• Lunlunta 3,018 ft (920m) elevation: alluvial origin. Loamy clay in the topsoil with rounded rocks on the bottom.
• El Cepillo, Eugenio Bustos 3,593 ft (1,090 m) elevation: alluvial origin. Loam-sandy soil with thick calcareous layers and rounded rocks on the bottom.
• Gualtallary 4,757 ft (1,450 m) elevation: aluvial origin. Gravel and limestone soil. Rounded rocks in the bottom.