Catena Zapata Chardonnay Adrianna Vineyard 'White Bones' 2014

The 2014 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard 'White Bones' Chardonnay is a white wine from the Gualtallary sub-region in the Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina. Sourced from one of the highest-altitude vineyards in the country, this Chardonnay reflects the unique mineral-driven terroir and the winery’s dedication to crafting world-class wines.

Vineyard and Production

• Location: The Adrianna Vineyard is situated at 4,757 feet (1,450 meters) above sea level in Gualtallary, Uco Valley. The 'White Bones' parcel, covering 2.2 hectares, is named for its calcareous soils rich in fossilized remains, indicative of an ancient riverbed that imparts distinctive minerality to the wine.
• Viticulture: The vineyard benefits from cool nighttime temperatures, allowing for slow ripening, enhanced aromatics, and vibrant acidity. The grapes are hand-harvested and selected for quality.
• Vinification: The wine undergoes fermentation with native yeasts in 500-liter French oak barrels, followed by 12-16 months of aging on the lees, enhancing texture and complexity. Bottled unfiltered and unfined, the wine retains purity and expressiveness.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Pale gold with greenish hues.
• Aroma: Intense and layered, with citrus fruits, green apple, ginger, floral notes, and a pronounced minerality reminiscent of wet stones and chalk.
• Palate: Vibrant and textured, displaying lemon zest, white peach, crisp apple, and a saline edge. The chalky texture and electric acidity lead to a long, mineral-driven finish.

Critical Acclaim

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95 points – Recognized for its remarkable freshness and striking minerality, even in a riper vintage like 2014.
• James Suckling: 96 points – Described as full-bodied yet vivid and energetic, highlighting its stone, flint, and dried apple complexity.
• Wilfred Wong: 100 points – Praised for its incredible depth and laser-like precision, noting its exceptional focus and extraordinary length.

Serving and Pairing

Serve chilled at 10-12°C (50-54°F) to fully appreciate its aromatics and texture. This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, grilled shrimp, seared scallops, or oysters. It also complements creamy pasta dishes, roasted poultry, and soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert.