2014 Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard Altamira Malbec

The Catena Zapata range comprises some single-vineyard wines, like the 2014 Malbec Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard that comes from a plot of ungrafted vines planted in Altamira in 1996 using Malbec cuttings from the ancient Angélica vineyard. Cropped from a year that delivered moderate alcohol and notable acidity, it fermented with full clusters in 2,000- and 5,000- liter oak foudres with indigenous yeasts. It matured in French oak barrels for 24 months. This shows superbly and is open and expressive, very classical and elegant, floral and mineral, with no excess whatsoever. The palate reveals superb balance, really harmonious and elegant. This one might be overlooked because there is a lot of attention given to the Malbecs from Adrianna vineyard, but this is really at the same quality level. 12,000 bottles were filled in July 2016. 2018 - 2024.

The complex violet, clove and savory nose doesn't leave you in any doubt, and the deep and concentrated palate confirms that you're right. Serious tannins at the long finish, but somehow it manages to be silky. Drink in 2020.

Bright, full ruby. Vibrant boysenberry, bitter chocolate, licorice and rocks on the nose, lifted by a floral topnote. Wonderfully broad and supple but not heavy, conveying an almost chocolatey ripeness and alluring sweetness but given shape and definition by lively acidity. This compellingly pliant, expansive beauty finishes with superb breadth and length.

Part of the comparatively new Paraje Altamira sub-zone, Nicasia was planted in 2000. The resulting wine sees 50% whole bunches and is intensely perfumed, bright and refreshing, showing the sheer class of the appellation and some underlying grip. 2019-26.