Malbec is the signature grape of Argentina and Bodega Catena Zapata is one of the most respected producers. Their Catena line makes its reappearance at ANBL after an absence of a year or so. With that said, I have to admit I was a bit disappointed with this wine, not because it's bad, but because it's not as good as I remember. I remember loving it the last vintage I had, which I think was the 2004. This time I found it to be very lush and soft, with decent fruit, but a bit generic and lacking in character. It reminded me of the High Trellis cabernet. But hey, Wine Spectator gave a score of 90 to both the '04 and the '05, so its probably just my memory playing tricks. But just to prove my independence, I'm going to give it an 86 anyway. It's probably just a matter of style and mood. If you want something lush, soft and fruity, this may be the wine for you.
Here's Kelly's note: "Promising nose of raspberries, spruce, and spice follows through in palate, but not quite as lush and flavourful as expected. Firm tannins, clear taste. Not overly complex. Score: 87"
Price: $25.49
Value: 3/5
Score: 86
Alcohol: 13.5%
Tasted: Sept 2008
ANBL UPC: 089046444030
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I was going to post a review of this wine, but noticed that one was already written about a year ago.
ReplyDeleteThis wine has brought back my appreciation of Malbec. Seems like lately I have been having quite a few Malbecs that have left no impression. Interestingly, when I opened this bottle, I noticed the neck of the bottle seemed unusually dark, and in my investigation I spilled a bit of the wine on my hand and my skin was instantly stained. The first time ever that wine has actually stained my skin. Hence my first descriptor..."Inky" :-)
What can I say...this is such a nice Malbec!!!
I have to agree with Kelly "Promising nose of raspberries, spruce, and spice"...This wine is such a good, solid, and enjoyable representation of Malbec...perhaps the best I have had yet. This not big and tannic like the Las Moras Black Label, but more refined and elegant (well, as elegant as Malbec can be).
I ended up buying a couple more bottles to cellar for a few years, and I think this is going to be one of those beautiful treats that I haul out in about 4 years, and am amazed that it was sub $30.
FYI...the price is now $26.29
My ratings:
Value: 4.5/5
Score: 91
Thanks for the update. Maybe it is time for us to try another bottle.
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