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.

Rating

"Very pale color. Captivating aromas of lemon cream, nectarine, papaya, cinnamon, mace and smoky oak. Dense and lush on entry, then sweet but shapely in the middle, with vibrant flavors of pineapple, peach and spices. Surprisingly sappy acidity gives this wine terrific verve and grip. Spreads out to saturate the palate without leaving any impression of weight. I would call this Burgundian, but it's really chardonnay in its own distinctive style-and one of the best examples of the variety I've yet tasted from Argentina."-Stephen Tanzer 93 Points " There is one white wine among the higher-end new releases, the 2008 Alta Chardonnay. Light gold in color with an outstanding aromatic array of buttered popcorn, honeysuckle, mineral, and tropical fruits, on the palate it is medium-bodied, concentrated, impeccably balanced, and lengthy. This savory offering can be enjoyed over the next 5-6 years."-Jay Miller Wine Advocate 92 Points