Product Description
The Adrianna Vineyard River Malbec 2021 is a striking expression of terroir, coming from a unique parcel of the Adrianna Vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina. This small plot, located at an elevation of 4,482 feet in the Gualtallary District of the Tupungato Alto region, is entirely covered by oval white stones that were deposited by an ancient riverbed. The stones create optimal drainage while absorbing heat during the day and moderating the cooling effects of the night. The stony soil contributes to the wine's signature aromatics, creating a rich, luxurious Malbec that is both floral and exuberant in character. This wine beautifully combines the unique elements of the soil with Malbec’s intense fruitiness, delivering a wine that is both approachable young and perfect for aging.
The 2021 vintage of River Malbec was crafted using meticulous techniques, including cold maceration with 50% whole clusters and fermentation with wild yeasts. The wine was then aged for 18-21 months in French oak barrels. The result is a wine with a deep, complex profile, boasting floral aromas, smooth tannins, and a lengthy, harmonious finish. With its bold character and structural complexity, River Malbec offers a glimpse into the unique terroir of the Adrianna Vineyard and is a wine that will evolve beautifully with time.
Maker
Bodega Catena Zapata is a pioneering family-owned winery that has been a driving force in Argentina’s wine industry for over four generations. Founded by Nicolás Catena Zapata, the winery is located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza, Argentina, where the high-altitude vineyards provide ideal conditions for producing world-class wines. Catena Zapata has revolutionized Argentine winemaking, particularly through its focus on high-altitude viticulture and the exploration of new terroirs that produce wines of exceptional complexity and elegance.
The winery’s philosophy centers around the belief that terroir is the most important factor in crafting extraordinary wines. Nicolás Catena's dedication to discovering and perfecting the expression of Mendoza’s diverse regions has led to the creation of some of Argentina’s most iconic wines, including the Adrianna Vineyard wines. With an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, Catena Zapata continues to elevate Argentine wine on the global stage.
The Vineyard (Adrianna Vineyard)
Adrianna Vineyard is located in the Gualtallary District of Tupungato Alto, in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina. Positioned at 4,482 feet (1,366 meters) above sea level, this vineyard benefits from the extreme altitude and dramatic day-night temperature fluctuations that are ideal for grape ripening while retaining natural acidity. The vineyard’s stony soils, a remnant of an ancient riverbed, are covered in calcium carbonate and oval white stones that provide excellent drainage, preventing over-irrigation and stress on the vines. The soil’s unique composition and challenging conditions contribute to the production of rich, aromatic Malbec with a defined structure and complexity.
The vineyard is divided into carefully selected parcels, each tailored to the unique characteristics of the soil and microclimate. The River parcel, from which this Malbec is sourced, is one of the most exceptional. Its combination of alluvial origins, high altitude, and calcium-rich soils creates a distinct environment that produces some of the most elegant and expressive wines in the Adrianna Vineyard portfolio.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Floral, Fruity & Complex
The Adrianna Vineyard River Malbec 2021 offers a highly expressive nose, bursting with floral aromas of violet and rose petals. These are layered with intense black fruit notes of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, complemented by hints of pepper, sandalwood, and a touch of violet pastille. The influence of the river stones and the soil's mineral content gives a complex earthy undertone, enhancing the wine's depth.
Palate
Silky, Rich & Harmonious
On the palate, this wine reveals a rich texture and well-structured body. Black fruit flavours dominate, with dark plum, blackberry, and black cherry enveloped by a seamless, velvety mouthfeel. Subtle notes of spice, chocolate, and sandalwood add complexity, while the wine’s smooth tannins provide excellent structure and length. The acidity is perfectly balanced, keeping the wine fresh and vibrant despite its richness.
Finish
Lengthy, Smooth & Elegant
The finish is long and refined, with lingering notes of dark fruit, mineral undertones, and a hint of tobacco. The wine’s smooth tannins provide a well-rounded, elegant structure, while its acidity ensures a refreshing conclusion. A true reflection of the Adrianna Vineyard’s terroir, the wine has an exceptional ability to age gracefully, allowing its complexity to evolve further over time.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Malbec
Country - Argentina
Region - Mendoza, UCO Valley
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.9%
