2005 Malbec Argentino
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Tasting notes
(made from the best 12 barrels from a high-altitude planting of very old vines) Saturated medium ruby. Knockout nose offers cassis, mocha and clove, along with a strong suggestion of soil tones. Projects an uncanny combination of density and sweetness on the one hand and penetration on the other, with gripping, lightly saline flavors of dark berries, tobacco, spices and minerals. A wonderfully tactile wine with substantial broad tannins and a palate-staining finish dominated by sweet black and blue fruits.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2005 Malbec Argentino is a blend of the Nicasia and Adrianna Vineyards. As is often the case, the blend is better (although not by much) than either of the individual components. It offers greater complexity both aromatically and on the palate, opulence, great fruit expression, and superb aging potential. Drink this beautifully rendered wine from 2015 to 2035. The Catena Zapata portfolio is stunning from entry-level to top-of-the-line. As an aside, during my visit to Catena-Zapata in April, 2008, I tasted many barrel samples of 2006s and 2007s. The components, particularly of the 2006s are astounding; the best is yet to come. Importer: Billington Imports, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 455-4700; fax (703) 455-0450; www.billingtonwines.com
Very lively and exciting. Dry end. Definitely made for the future. It actually tastes more European than Argentine to me. It's long on structure rather than fragrance. This is the second vintage of this wine, while it’s extremely luscious, it is perhaps a bit less complete than the Nicolás Catena Zapata. (JR)
About the producer
Bodega Catena Zapata has been instrumental both in the development of fine wine production in Argentina and in realising the full potential of the Malbec grape.