Bodega Catena Zapata : Adrianna "White Stones" Chardonnay 2023

A high-altitude Chardonnay from the Uco Valley in Argentina

The estate

Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena, Bodega Catena Zapata spans six historic vineyards in the Mendoza region, including the prestigious Adrianna vineyard, which reaches 1,450 meters in altitude. Now led by Nicolás Catena Zapata and his daughter Laura Catena, this family estate revolutionized Argentine viticulture by reviving Malbec and exploring extreme high-altitude terroirs. Named one of the "World's Best Vineyards" in 2023, Catena Zapata is distinguished by its innovative scientific approach through the Institut Catena du Vin and its Maya-inspired pyramidal architecture.

The vineyard

The plot dedicated to this Adrianna "White Stones" cuvée covers 2.5 hectares in the Argentine district of Gualtallary in Mendoza. Located at 1,450 meters in altitude, this plot sits on an ancient alluvial riverbed composed of stony soils and oval white pebbles. This unique geology gives the terroir exceptional minerality and optimal drainage capacity.

The vintage

The 2023 vintage was marked by spring frosts in October and November, which significantly reduced yields. The very dry climate and slightly warmer temperatures accelerated ripening, allowing for harvests 2 to 4 weeks earlier than usual. These unique climatic conditions helped produce grapes of exceptional quality.

Winemaking and aging

After a cold settling of 10 to 24 hours at under 6°C, the Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay 2023 ferments for 45 to 95 days. The aging of this Mendoza wine takes place over 12 to 16 months in second-, third- and fourth-use French oak barrels, thus preserving the purity of the fruit while adding complexity and structure.

Grape variety

The Adrianna "White Stones" 2023 is 100% Chardonnay.