Product Description
The Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay 2021 is a truly exceptional wine that exemplifies the unique terroir of the Adrianna Vineyard, located in the high-altitude Gualtallary sub-district of the Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina. Sourced from 27 select rows in Block 1, known as "White Stones" due to the gravel and oval white stones that cover the ground, this Chardonnay is a rare expression of the land and climate. The Adrianna Vineyard is renowned for its challenging growing conditions, where stony, alluvial soils, poor fertility, and cool nights stress the vines into producing low yields and exceptional quality. The cool climate ensures slow, gradual ripening, retaining optimum acidity and building the complex character that defines this wine.
This Chardonnay is crafted with great care and precision. After cold settling, the juice is fermented in French oak barrels, where it undergoes partial malolactic fermentation and biological aging. The wine is then aged for 12-16 months in second, third, and fourth-use barrels, which contribute subtle oak influence without overpowering the delicate fruit character. The result is a wine with remarkable balance, intense mineral expression, and vibrant acidity, capturing the essence of its high-altitude home.
Drink Window – 2023-2031
Food Pairings – This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from rich seafood like lobster and scallops to roasted chicken, creamy pastas, and charcuterie. Its acidity and structure also make it a great match for soft cheeses such as Brie and Camembert.
Maker
The Catena Zapata family is one of Argentina’s most renowned and pioneering winemaking dynasties. Over four generations, the Catena family has worked tirelessly to craft wines that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best. At the helm of this prestigious winery is Nicolás Catena Zapata, a visionary who has revolutionized winemaking in Mendoza. His pursuit of excellence led to the discovery of Argentina’s highest and most unique vineyard sites, including the iconic Adrianna Vineyard. Through meticulous care, sustainable farming practices, and a dedication to preserving the authentic expression of the land, Catena Zapata continues to create wines that are both innovative and reflective of the terroir. With the establishment of the Catena Institute of Wine, the family has made an unprecedented commitment to understanding and unlocking the potential of Mendoza’s diverse terroirs.
The Vineyard (Adrianna Vineyard)
The Adrianna Vineyard is often referred to as South America’s Grand Cru due to its exceptional location and remarkable terroir. Situated at an elevation of 4,757 feet (1,450 meters) in the Gualtallary sub-district of the Tupungato Alto region, the vineyard sits amidst the stunning Andes Mountains, where the unique combination of altitude, temperature variation, and stony soils creates ideal conditions for growing high-quality, expressive grapes. The vineyard's soils are composed of alluvial riverbed deposits, rich in minerals, which give the wines produced here a signature minerality and depth. The cool nights in this high-altitude region ensure a slow, steady ripening process, allowing for optimal flavour development and acid retention. The vineyard is meticulously studied and managed by the Catena Institute of Wine, making it one of the most scientifically researched vineyards in the world.
The White Stones parcel, from which this Chardonnay is sourced, is a particularly special site within the Adrianna Vineyard. The presence of oval white stones on the soil surface influences the drainage and mineral composition of the soil, which stresses the vines and enhances the concentration and complexity of the grapes. The resulting wines reflect the challenging conditions of this unique terroir, offering depth, elegance, and a distinct expression of the land.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Fresh Citrus and Subtle Oak
On the nose, the Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay 2021 is immediately expressive, with vibrant aromas of citrus fruits—lemon zest, lime, and grapefruit—intertwined with delicate floral notes. Subtle hints of roasted nuts and toasted oak add a layer of complexity, while a mineral edge from the stony soils shines through, offering a sense of freshness and purity.
Palate
Elegant and Structured
The palate is equally captivating, with a rich, textured mouthfeel balanced by a bright, zesty acidity. Flavours of lemon curd, white peach, and ripe citrus fruits lead the charge, while underlying nuances of hazelnut and vanilla from the oak add sophistication. The wine’s elegant structure and harmonious acidity make it a perfect balance of richness and freshness, with a long, lingering finish that showcases the mineral character of the Adrianna Vineyard.
Finish
Mineral and Refreshing
The finish is crisp and clean, with lingering notes of citrus peel, wet stone, and a delicate touch of oak. The wine’s minerality persists, leaving a refreshing, clean sensation on the palate that invites another sip.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Argentina
Region - Mendoza, UCO Valley
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12.5%
