Catena Zapata Malbec Mendoza Argentino 2017 1.5L

96 points Tim Atkin, MW: “Argentino is the only one of top Catena Malbecs that doesn’t come from a single vineyard. Lavishly packaged, it’s a 60/40 cuvée of Paraje Altamira and Lunlunta fruit, with the former component undergoing whole bunch fermentation. Intense and concentrated, as all of these wines are, this is an ambitious, complex and refined, with stony freshness and spicy, layered black and red fruit. 2022-27. Alcohol 14.1%.”

95 points Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate): “The 2017 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino mixes grapes from 60% Altamira (Nicasia) and Lunlunta and shows a little riper than the pure Altamira from Nicasia vineyard. There is a note of raspberry that gives brightness to the aromas, and the palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and a fluid sensation that is quite remarkable for 2017. 22,800 bottles were filled in November 2018. Drink: 2019-2027. (Oct 2019)”

94 points Wine Spectator: “[$140 list] Elegant, fine-textured flavors of red fruit and red berry are backed by suave, medium-grained tannins. Silky midpalate, with a long, mineral-filled finish that features lively sanguine and light savory accents. Drink now through 2026. (10/21/20)”