Catena Zapata 'Birth of Cabernet' 2021

Born from the vision of Nicolás and Laura Catena, Birth of Cabernet is an homage to the origins of Cabernet Sauvignon in Argentina. The wine is sourced from two of Catena Zapata’s most historic vineyards — La Pirámide in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, and Angélica Sur in Paraje El Cepillo, Uco Valley. These high-altitude sites, perched between 950 and 1,100 meters above sea level, rest on alluvial soils rich in gravel, limestone, and volcanic ash. The combination of intense sunlight, cool mountain nights, and meager soils yields small, thick-skinned berries with extraordinary concentration and aromatic precision.

Grape Varietals: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc

Wine Region: Mendoza, Argentina — Vineyards: La Pirámide (Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo) & Angélica Sur (Paraje El Cepillo, Uco Valley)

Tasting Notes: A wine of remarkable balance and poise, the 2021 Birth of Cabernet reveals an expressive bouquet of blackcurrant, cassis, and ripe plum intertwined with violet, cedar, graphite, and hints of tobacco leaf. On the palate, it is refined yet powerful — layered with dark berry fruit, cocoa, and savoury herbs framed by fine-grained tannins and vibrant mountain acidity. The finish is long and mineral-driven, echoing with notes of cassis, spice, and subtle oak. A graceful, age-worthy Cabernet that captures both the elegance of the Andes and the soul of Mendoza.

Food Pairing: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, or dry-aged ribeye with truffle jus

Ratings:
James Suckling — 96/100

Drink Window: 2025–2040