Wines Mendoza Bodega y Viñedos Catena - Malbec Catena Alta - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Bodega y Viñedos Catena's Malbec Catena Alta 2020 is a flagship expression of Argentina's most celebrated grape. Crafted entirely from Malbec, this 2020 vintage is sourced from selected high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza, where the combination of cool nights and intense sunlight allows grapes to achieve remarkable aromatic complexity and vibrant freshness. The wine is a deep, vivid red with violet tinges, offering a seductive nose of ripe blackberries, plum compote, and subtle floral notes, intricately interwoven with delicate touches of cocoa and sweet spice from an elegant ageing in French oak barrels. On the palate, the structure is both refined and powerful, displaying layers of dark fruit, smooth tannins, and a long, persistent finish that speaks to the careful sorting and gentle extraction during vinification.

The Mendoza region sits against the foothills of the Andes, benefiting from an exceptional viticultural setting. At altitudes ranging from 800 to over 1,500 metres, vineyards are blessed with intense sunlight, significant diurnal temperature shifts, and mineral-rich alluvial soils, primarily gravel and sand layered with limestone. This unique terroir not only preserves acidity and perfume in the grapes but also ensures the Malbec develops depth and finesse rarely seen elsewhere. The region's winemaking tradition dates back to the 19th century, evolving into a hotspot for world-class Malbecs that deftly showcase both varietal character and the signature freshness of high elevation.

With its rich profile and polished tannins, Catena Alta Malbec 2020 pairs perfectly with robust dishes such as grilled beef ribeye, Argentinian asado, lamb chops with chimichurri, or slow-cooked beef stew. For a regional experience, serve alongside empanadas mendocinas or provoleta cheese with herbs. The wine's vibrant acidity and spice also make it a fine partner for matured hard cheeses or earthy mushroom risottos.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour and serve at 17-18°C. This will allow its bouquet to fully unfold, revealing the subtle nuances and expressive fruit that define this exceptional Argentine Malbec.