CATENA ZAPATA "Birth of Cabernet" 2021 (750ml)
96 points. - Decanter 96 points. - James Suckling The inaugural vintage of Birth of Cabernet celebrates the origins and global journey of Cabernet Sauvignon. Its striking label portrays Cabernet Franc as a fox and Sauvignon Blanc as a siren—the two parent varieties whose natural crossing created Cabernet Sauvignon—while their offspring travels from France to the foothills of the Andes. The 2021 is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc, sourced from La Pirámide Vineyard in Agrelo at 950 metres and Angélica Sur Vineyard in El Cepillo at 1,100 metres. Fermentation took place in concrete eggs, stainless-steel tanks and French oak roll-fermenters, followed by 18–24 months in French oak. Deep and classically Cabernet in character, opening with blackcurrant, dark cherry and plum alongside cigar box, fine tobacco, black olive and dark truffle. Notes of graphite, cedar and savoury herbs emerge with air. Concentrated and structured on the palate, with layers of dark fruit, vibrant freshness and firm, dusty tannins that build through a long, focused finish. Excellent with grilled ribeye, roast beef, rack of lamb, venison, braised beef cheeks or charcoal-grilled short ribs. It will also pair well with roast mushrooms, truffle dishes and aged hard cheeses. This structured debut vintage is entering its drinking window in 2026, but will reward further cellaring. Enjoy from 2026 to approximately 2038. If opening now, decant for 90 minutes to two hours and serve at around 16–18°C.