Catena Zapata has been named the World’s Most Admired Wine Brand of 2025 by Drinks International. This marks the second time Catena has claimed the top spot, having previously ranked number one in 2020.
Founded in 1902, the Catena Family is renowned for its pioneering efforts in resurrecting the Malbec grape and discovering extreme high-altitude terroirs in the Andean foothills of Mendoza. The wines are made by fourth generation vintner, Laura Catena and chief winemaker, Alejandro Vigil and with their impressive knowledge of region and incredible vineyards are able to produce exceptional wines. Considered one of not only the great wineries of Argentina, but of the whole world, their iconic pyramid shaped winery (depicted on the label) is a must see if you ever get the chance to visit Mendoza.
This Malbec captures the full breadth of Argentina's rugged mountain terroir, sourced from a trio of Mendoza’s top sites, including Lunlunta, El Cepillo, and Gualtallary. Hand-harvested from old vines grown on rocky, limestone-rich soils, the fruit sees a cool fermentation and gentle handling to lock in its natural vibrancy. Maturation in French oak for 11–13 months polishes the wine without dulling its wild heart.
2022 was an exceptional year from every possible qualitative standpoint. Alejandro Vigil, Head Winemaker says: "This is the best year that I have lived through."
An absolute benchmark for great value Mendoza Malbec, offering both immediate drinkability and the pedigree to reward cellaring for a decade or more.
Winery notes (2022 Vintage)
"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.
2022 was an exceptional year from every possible qualitative standpoint. Alejandro Vigil, Head Winemaker says: "This is the best year that I have lived through."
The 2022 Catena Malbec shows a deep violet colour with purple reflections. The nose offers concentrated aromas of ripe red and dark fruits with delicate floral notes like violets and lavender, and 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-tannins with bright acidity and a flinty minerality that gives the wine exceptional length."
92/100 JamesSuckling.com (2022 Vintage)
"A very well-made malbec with a mixture of red and black cherries, roasted spices and graphite. This is quite juicy and tight on the palate with good intensity and a fresh and flavourful finish. Drink now."
92/100 Vinous (2022 Vintage)
"The 2022 Malbec originates from the Uco Valley and is a blend of various regions and winemaking techniques. Purple in hue. The nose reveals enticing notes ranging from crushed plums to violets atop a faintly herbal backdrop. Indulgent and juicy, the plush texture and refreshing flow lead to a rich and satisfyingly long-lasting palate. This wine is built upon different components that come together to achieve a relatively complex flavour."