Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard River Stones Malbec 2022

Description Adrianna Vineyard River Stones 2022 is an exceptional parcel wine (vino de parcela) crafted by Bodega Catena Zapata, sourced exclusively from a 2.6-hectare parcel within the iconic Adrianna Vineyard in Gualtallary, Tupungato Alto (Uco Valley), at an altitude of 1,366 meters. The parcel takes its name from the ancient riverbed covered with oval white stones coated in calcium carbonate. These stones provide optimal drainage and act as natural thermal regulators, storing daytime warmth to release during cool nights. Vinified with 60% to 80% whole clusters, cold-macerated for 5 to 10 days, and fermented in 500-liter oak barrels and 2,000-liter French oak roll-fermentors, the wine was aged for 18 to 21 months in neutral 2,200-liter French oak foudres. "In the glass, it presents a deep violet-ruby color with radiant clarity. The nose is exuberant and highly floral, unfolding vivid aromas of crushed violets, wild blueberries, black cherries, and dried mountain herbs, underlaid by a pronounced chalky and graphite minerality. On the palate, it delivers stunning balance and verticality, framed by silky, fine-grained tannins and a vibrant natural acidity that carries into a remarkably long, savory, and mineral-laced finish." Technical Sheet Winery: Catena Zapata Product: Adrianna Vineyard River (River Stones) Type: Red Wine Vintage: 2022 Varietal: Malbec Blend: 100% Malbec Vineyard / Parcel: Adrianna Vineyard, Parcel "River" (2.6 ha) Altitude: 1,366 m.a.s.l. (4,482 ft) Region: Gualtallary, Tupungato Alto, Uco Valley, Mendoza Soil Type: Alluvial origin; white stones coated with calcium carbonate (ancient riverbed) Winemaking: Cold maceration for 5–10 days with 60%–80% whole cluster; fermented in 500-liter oak barrels and 2,000-liter French oak roll-fermentors for 12–22 days (max. temp 25–30°C); 10–15 days maceration Aging: 18–21 months in French oak foudres of over 5 years of age (2,200 liters) Alcohol: 13.6% Total Acidity: 6.9 g/L pH: 3.60 Main Descriptors: Floral, exuberant, silky tannins Serving Temperature: 16–18°C (61–64°F) Country: Argentina Food Pairing: Grilled prime ribeye, roasted rack of lamb, venison medallions, duck confit, truffled risotto, and aged hard cheeses Aging Potential: 20 years or more Score: 99 pts James Suckling | 98 pts Robert Parker | 98 pts Descorchados | 97 pts Tim Atkin