Meet the Winemaker: Catena

A name synonymous with Argentine excellence, Catena combines altitude, innovation, and generations of family expertise to produce wines that have transformed Malbec and elevated Argentina on the world stage.

‘The Catena name is one of the most respected in the world of wine. Twice crowned Drinks International Magazine’s ‘World’s Most Admired Wine Brand’ in both 2020 and 2025, they have pioneered high-altitude Malbec and redefined Argentine fine wine through science, family heritage, and world-class vineyards, producing wines that range from accessible, everyday expressions to rare, ageworthy icons.

Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicolás Catena, the brand was revolutionised in 1955 by his grandson Nicolás Catena Zapata, who not only transformed his family’s winery in the Uco Valley, but was instrumental in putting Argentina firmly on the world wine map. He pioneered high-altitude Malbec, planting vines in the foothills of the Andean Mountains.

Today, Catena is led by fourth-generation vintner Dr Laura Catena alongside her father Nicolás. A Harvard and Stanford-trained medical doctor who worked in emergency medicine in the US, Laura founded the Catena Institute of Wine. The Institute has conducted landmark studies on vineyard science, from clonal selection to sunlight intensity and soil microbiomes, helping defi ne how terroir and altitude shape wine quality.

Sustainability at Catena is rooted in long-term vineyard health and scientific research. The estate champions biodiversity, regenerative farming practices, and water conservation, while its work on climate and altitude has become a global reference point for sustainable viticulture in extreme environments.

Their wines are truly a must-try this spring.

Catena Malbec, Mendoza

Catena is one of the biggest names in Mendoza. And this fantastic Malbec has been a staple on our shelves for years. Bold. Ripe. Fruity. It’s a big wine with lots of flavour – and a lovely plush texture. It’s crying out for grilled meats – think barbecued steak with a punchy chimichurri sauce, perfect for a spring BBQ. Delicious.

Catena Zapata ‘Catena Alta’ Malbec, Mendoza

Catena Alta is a collection of wines made in limited quantities from carefully selected vines in Catena’s best vineyards. These prized bottles are best enjoyed after three years of maturation and will continue to improve over at least a decade. It’s aged for 18 months in oak, making it rich and supple. Expect notes of black fruits, mocha, and vanilla. Enjoy a generous glass with roasted pork, studded with cloves.

Catena Chardonnay, Mendoza

If you love rich whites, you’ll want to try this ripe Chardonnay from the winery responsible for putting Argentine wine on the map. This chardonnay is fermented in new French oak barrels for 10 months, imparting a rich and creamy texture to the wine. It’s rich and tropical, with flavours of apple, pear, butter and sweet spices. Try it with your favourite roast.

https://www.majestic.co.uk/wines/catena-alta-chardonnay-40024

Catena Zapata ‘Catena Alta’ Chardonnay, Mendoza

This wine shows Catena’s expertise in high-altitude winemaking. It’s made in vineyards up to a towering 4,757 feet above sea level. Chardonnay grapes benefit from a long ripening period at this height. So this is absolutely delicious. It has notes of pear, peach, citrus, and jasmine. Serve this lightly chilled with sushi.

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