Bodega Catena Zapata
Mendoza
Bodega Catena Zapata is a prestigious family-owned winery located in Mendoza, Argentina, specifically in the Agrelo sub-appellation of Luján de Cuyo. Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena, it has played a pivotal role in elevating Argentine Malbec to international acclaim. The winery is notable for pioneering high-altitude viticulture in the Uco Valley, particularly with its Adrianna vineyard planted at 1,500 meters above sea level, which was once considered too extreme for quality wine production. Architecturally, the winery is distinguished by its pyramid-shaped building inspired by Mayan designs, constructed in the late 1990s. Under the leadership of Nicolás Catena Zapata and later his daughter Laura Catena, the winery integrated European winemaking techniques and scientific research through the Catena Institute of Wine, focusing on terroir, Malbec genetics, and sustainable viticulture. The winery's commitment to preserving ungrafted, massale-selected vines in its Viejito de Rivadavia Vineyard further underscores its dedication to quality and heritage. In 1999, a partnership with Baron Eric de Rothschild led to the creation of Bodegas Caro, blending Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon to express terroir distinctively. Recognized globally, Bodega Catena Zapata was named the World's Best Vineyards in 2023, solidifying its status as a leader in Argentine and international winemaking.
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Tip: Visit during the harvest season in late summer or early autumn to experience the winery at its most vibrant. Booking tours and tastings in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist months. The winery offers insights into high-altitude viticulture and sustainable practices. Discounts may be available for groups or through wine club memberships. Check the official website or contact them directly for current visiting hours and reservation policies.
Interesting facts
- •The winery's pyramid-shaped building is inspired by Mayan architecture and was designed by architect Pablo Sánchez Elía.
- •Bodega Catena Zapata pioneered high-altitude Malbec vineyards at 1,500 meters in the Uco Valley, an area once considered unsuitable for viticulture.
- •The Catena Institute of Wine conducts scientific research on high-altitude terroir, Malbec genetics, and sustainable viticulture.
- •The Viejito de Rivadavia Vineyard preserves ungrafted, massale-selected vines, representing rare genetic material in Argentina.
- •In 1999, Bodega Catena Zapata partnered with Baron Eric de Rothschild to create Bodegas Caro, blending Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon.
- •In 2023, Bodega Catena Zapata was awarded the title of the World's Best Vineyards.
History
Founded in 1902 by Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant with a winemaking heritage from Italy's Marche region, Bodega Catena Zapata began by planting Malbec vineyards in Mendoza.
The winery was passed down to his son Domingo and later to Nicolás Catena Zapata, who expanded the business and introduced European winemaking techniques.
In the early 1990s, Nicolás pioneered high-altitude vineyards in the Uco Valley, notably the Adrianna vineyard.
In 1995, Laura Catena joined the winery, founding the Catena Institute of Wine to advance research on terroir and Malbec.
The winery's iconic pyramid structure was built in the late 1990s.
In 1999, a partnership with Baron Eric de Rothschild created Bodegas Caro.
The winery was awarded the World's Best Vineyards title in 2023.
Contact
Phone: 0261 413-1124
