The very young but already harmonious 2021 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino has one of the showier labels from the Catena portfolio. 2021 was a cooler year, as cold as 2016, but instead of a wet year like 2016, it was dry. The wine is juicy and reveals a vibrant palate and very clean and focused aromas and flavors. It's clean and precise with varietal aromas of violets, ripe berries and herbs and a spicy touch from the élevage in oak. It's another great vintage for this blend of grapes from the vineyards of Angélica (Lunlunta) and Nicasia (Altamira). It's nicely textured and tasty, medium to full-bodied and with a vibrant finish. 60,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2022.
96 points, Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate (Nov 2022)
A really well-balanced malbec here that is slightly spicier and richer. Black cherries, dark olives and some violets. Fleshy and almost full-bodied on the palate with juicy, naturally rendered fruit and very fine-grained tannins. Balance is the word. Drink or hold.
96 points, Zekun Shuai, James Suckling (Apr 2023)
The 2021 Malbec Argentino harmoniously blends 50% Lulunta grapes with 50% Paraje Altamira. For those who recall the old style, characterized by a significant oak influence on the aromas, this vintage marks a pivotal moment. Half of the wine was aged for 16 months in foudres, while the other half matured in concrete vats. The outcome is a wine that leans more towards its primary characteristics. Displays a purple hue. The nose reveals notes of cherry, blackberry, orange peel, violets and cedar. It presents a dry and plush profile on the palate, with fine-grained tannins and a juicy flow that culminates in a lingering fruity finish, accompanied by a vibrant and refreshing sensation.
95 points, Joaquín Hidalgo, Vinous (Sep 2023)