2016 Catena Malbec

Nicolas Catena has been instrumental in Argentina’s progress over the last three decades, bringing the country's wine industry into line with world class standards. What you can now get for your money in the present day climate are seriously good expressions of the nation's signature varietal, Malbec, that rival many Australian reds for punch and price.

Very savoury and loaded with flavour this Malbec really over delivers.

A blend of three different vineyards the wine is matured in a mixture of new, second and third use barrels for a period of 12-14 months. Excellent depth of colour displaying an inky black dark red core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Lifted violet black cherry and blackcurrant aromas intermix with liquorice, a faint whiff of blueberry, inky earth notes and spicy dried herbs. Medium to full bodied, black cherry, blackcurrant and liquorice flavours are rich and concentrated, yet there’s a feeling of finesse to this wine. Complexing elements of earthy dried herbs, subtle clove and spice are evident on the back palate. The tannins are sturdy but also silky in their feel and provide a great framework. Long savoury aftertaste of blackcurrant, blueberry, liquorice, earthy clove characters and spice. A top example of keenly priced Argentinian Malbec.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13%

Other Reviews….
The fresh, floral and expressive 2016 Catena Malbec blends grapes from different parts of Mendoza: Lunlunta, Agrelo, Altamira El Cepillo and Gualtallary. It fermented in stainless steel and matured in French and American oak barrels for an average of 12 months. It's straight and a little austere but has deep flavors. Superb quality for the price and volume. Drink 2018-2023.
92 points
Luis Gutierrez – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate