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Date Printed: 8/27/2008
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(search item no. 77727)
Wine Spectator rating: 91 points
PRICE ON 8/27/2008: $19.99

ratings pedigree (past vintages):
2005 The Wine Advocate rating: 91 points
2005 Wine Spectator rating: 90 points
2005 International Wine Cellar rating: 90 points
2004 Wine Spectator rating: 90 points
1997 Wine Enthusiast rating: 93 points
1997 International Wine Cellar rating: 88 points

Winemaker's Notes:

 Number 67 on Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2004!

Delicious stuff, this old vine Malbec bursts with intense, peppery fruit. Some of the best Malbec in the world.

The Lulunta Vineyard was planted more than 60 years ago with a density of about 5,700 vines/ha. (2,300 vines/acres). The soil, of sand and shallow clay over a stony subsoil, allows for excellent drainage. Trellising is over three wires at a height of 1.75 meters. The results of ideal soil and climate condition together with meticulous pruning, irrigation and canopy management are low yields of small berries with extremely concentrate flavors and round velvety tannins.
My Notes:

Additional wines from Catena:

About Catena:

 In 1902, Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant, planted his first vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina. The winery has been in family hands for three generations. For the past two decades, owner, Nicolas Catena Zapata and his team of winemakers and viticulturalists have studied the different microclimates and terroirs of Mendoza to determine the best areas and vineyard techniques to grow the winery’s many varietals.

Nicolas Catena Zapata believes that the terroir of Mendoza’s high altitude wine country (3,000 - 5,000 feet) is unique to the world. The temperature, low humidity and scarce rainfall create ideal conditions for making distinctive wines that can stand with the best in the world. In 2001, Nicolas Catena Zapata inaugurated a new winery inspired by Mayan architecture. The unprecedented, state-of-the-art winery is located at 3,100 feet above sea level in the heart of the 18 year old Uxmal vineyard. The winery was designed to embody the heritage and individuality of Mendoza’s wine country, while fulfilling Catena’s quest to place Argentine wines among the best in the world.