92pts Vinous

The 2022 Malbec Appellation Lunlunta comes from old vines planted in Lunlunta, Maipu. Aged for 13 months in French oak barrels (with approximately one-third of them being new), this purple wine reveals aromas of dried plums and cherry, with a subtly spicy layer. Rich, ample and plush on the palate, it lingers with a creamy, ripe fruit flow. This is a bold and intense Malbec driven by its terroir.

91pts James Suckling

Lots of fruit with a touch of white pepper. Juicy and berry-oriented on the palate with a crunchy medium body and a bright, fruity finish. Soft, fresh tannins. Drink now.

Winemaker Notes

The Lunlunta shows a deep violet color with purple reflections. The nose offers concentrated aromas of ripe red and dark fruits with traces of vanilla and mocha. The mouthfeel is rich and concentrated, with blueberries and blackberries notes and a touch of leather and cinnamon. The finish presents well integrated supple tannins with a flinty minerality that gives the wine exceptional length.

The Catena Lunlunta perfectly pairs with smoked meats and cheeses and equally well with braises, roasts or grilled meats and fowl. Perfect for a light dinner or a substantial meal, it is an extremely versatile wine that can be enjoyed with or without food.

Winery Notes

Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina's high altitude Malbec pioneers. The Catena family began making wine in Mendoza in 1902. Nicolas Catena, third generation family vintner, was one of the first to see the potential of Mendoza's mountain vineyards for producing high quality Malbec. In 1994, he became the first Argentine to exprot a world-class bottling of Malbec under the Catena label. Nicolas is joined by his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family's high altitude vineyards. Laura has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. Head winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, has been at Catena Zapata since 2002 and works with Laura and Nicolas to make wines that express the family's vineyards and palate.

Importer Notes

Family vintners for over 100 years, the Catenas are recognized internationally for their pioneering role in high-altitude viticulture and in leading Argentina’s Malbec revolution. Lunlunta is an idyllic district of small orchards and tree-lined country roads, well known for its ancient Malbec vines and silty-clay soils. Lunlunta Malbec displays black and red berry aromatics, a lengthy mid-palate and ripe silky finish. This is Argentine Malbec at its best.

Grape Varietal: 100% Malbec