In a recent ceremony held in Spain’s Rioja wine region, Catena Zapata in Mendoza, Argentina was voted number one in the World’s Best Vineyards Awards for 2023. The historic winery beat out over 500 vineyards from around the globe to claim the top spot. Let’s discover more details about this award-wining vineyard in the heart of South American.
The Latest News
In an exciting turn of events, Catena Zapata not only seized the top spot in the global rankings, but also scooped the overall South American vineyard award. But the news from Catena Zapata isn’t only about awards. This year, the vineyard also opened its first restaurant, Angélica Cocina Maestra, a culinary gem situated amidst the mesmerizing landscape of the La Pirámide vineyard.
A Vineyard Steeped in History
Established in 1902, Catena Zapata holds the esteemed title of the oldest Argentine family winery. Over more than a century, it has weathered the ebbs and flows of the global wine industry, continually standing as a testament to Argentine viticulture.
The winery was started by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena and has been passed down through four generations. Known as the “Grandfather of Malbec,” Nicolás Catena Zapata pioneered the planting of Malbec vines in extreme high altitudes, reinventing the grape variety and putting Argentine Malbec on the map.
This vineyard isn’t only renowned for its longevity but also its pioneering spirit. Catena Zapata was instrumental in reinventing Malbec, a wine variety that has become synonymous with Argentina. This innovation forms a crucial part of the vineyard’s rich history, contributing significantly to its world-renowned reputation today.
Where the Vineyard is Located
The Vineyard The Catena Zapata winery is located at the foot of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza, Argentina. The centerpiece is a striking Mayan-inspired pyramid built using local stone. Surrounding the pyramid are 104 hectares of organically farmed vineyards ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 feet in elevation. The extreme high altitude, pure mountain water, and intense sunlight produce Malbec grapes of incredible concentration and acidity.
Their Wines
When it comes to wines, Catena Zapata offers an array of exceptional vintages. The most famous, of course, is their Malbec, produced from high-altitude vineyards that give it a unique depth and complexity. Rich and robust, with notes of blackberry, plum, and vanilla, it’s a wine that speaks to the heart of Argentina’s wine country.
Yet, Malbec is not the only treasure that this vineyard holds. Catena Zapata also produces exquisite Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, and a variety of other wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of Mendoza. The focus is on expressing the purity of fruit with balance, complexity, and elegance.
How to visit the Vineyard
For wine lovers planning a pilgrimage to this award-winning vineyard, Mendoza is a mere two-hour flight from Buenos Aires. From Mendoza’s city center, Catena Zapata is approximately a half-hour drive, easily accessible by taxi, private transfer, or a rental car. Nestled against the backdrop of the Andes, the vineyard’s location offers breathtaking views, making the journey as spectacular as the destination.
Catena Zapata welcomes visitors for tours and tastings at their winery located just outside the town of Agrelo. Private tours can be booked in advance or you can join a small group for the daily public tours offered in English and Spanish. Don’t miss sampling the wines alongside seasonally-driven small plates at Angélica Cocina Maestra for the ultimate vineyard experience. With its rich history, culture of innovation, and breathtaking vineyard views, a visit to Catena Zapata offers a world-class wine journey in the foothills of the majestic Andes Mountains.
Their New Restaurant
New in 2023 This year, Catena Zapata opened their first on-site restaurant called Angélica Cocina Maestra, located right next to the iconic pyramid in the La Pirámide Vineyard. Headed by celebrated Argentine chef Germán Martitegui, the restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu paired with Catena Zapata’s wines. Reservations are required for the intimate dining experience overlook the vines.
Meet the Winemakers
The Winemakers Catena Zapata’s wines are crafted by winemaker Alejandro Vigil and consultant winemaker Paul Hobbs. Vigil, born and raised in Mendoza, has been with Catena Zapata since 1988. His delicate approach draws out the purest expressions from the high-altitude grapes. California native Paul Hobbs consults on the ultra-premium Catena Zapata wines, bringing an international perspective.
The Winemakers Catena Zapata’s wines are crafted by winemaker Alejandro Vigil and consultant winemaker Paul Hobbs. Vigil, born and raised in Mendoza, has been with Catena Zapata since 1988. His delicate approach draws out the purest expressions from the high-altitude grapes. California native Paul Hobbs consults on the ultra-premium Catena Zapata wines, bringing an international perspective.
With its award-winning wines, historic vineyards and gourmet restaurant, Catena Zapata offers an unparalleled wine experience, deservingly earning its place as the world’s best vineyard.
With over a century of winemaking excellence and a pioneering spirit that reinvented Malbec, Catena Zapata has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation and Argentine terroir. We raise a glass to salute Catena Zapata, named the World’s Best Vineyard of 2023 – a distinguished honor for this historic vineyard that continues to shape the future of global winemaking.
