2019 Catena High Mountain Vines 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. Made by fourth generation vintner Laura Catena and chief winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, this wine is sourced from three high altitude vineyards. Each vineyard is specifically farmed in preparation for its role in the final blend. Eighty year old vines in the Lunlunta (Maipù) vineyard lend soft, sweet texture whilst he intense sunshine in the Gualtallary (Tupungato) vineyard provides explosive floral aromatics and a concentrated structure. The last component is from El Cipillo in Eugenio Bustos, which has loamy sands and thick calcareous layers sit over rounded rock.  Maturation takes place in a mix of new, second and third use French oak barrels for 12 months.

A gorgeous Malbec loaded with rich blue to dark fruits that are supple and fleshy.

Superb colour, black as night heart with a deep bright dark red black tinged hue. A pretty aromatic profile of dark cherries, violets, red liquorice and blueberries are followed by fresh herb and spicy cedar notes. Medium bodied the palate is loaded with rich juicy blackcurrant, ripe blueberry and liquorice fruits which are seamlessly intertwined with vanillin cedar, dried herbs and faint spicy tobacco. Supple and fleshy mid palate it finishes with a nicely balanced freshness and polished yet well-constructed tannins. Long delicious blue to dark fruited aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews…..
This is a solid, focused malbec with tight, creamy tannins and plum and chocolate aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied. The tannins spread so nicely across the palate that they scarcely leave any trace. Drink and enjoy.
92 points
JamesSuckling.com

The excellent and floral 2019 Catena Malbec shows the typicity of the grape, violets and red berries, and the freshness of the year. It has the textbook aromas and a soft and velvety mouthfeel, with very fine grainy tannins. Drink 2021-2024.
92 points
Luis Gutierrez – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate