2021 Bodegas Catena Zapata Birth of Cabernet

Type of Wine | |
---|---|
Country | Argentina |
Region | |
Appellation | |
Winery | |
Vintage | 2021 |
Grape | , |
Content (Alc) | 0.75 ltr (13.5%) |
Drink window | 2025 - 2038 |
Available as of | Aug 8, 2025 |
Low Stock
Only 4 left
Backorder Information
It is possible to order this article in backorder. This is possible with items that we can generally have in stock again in 3-5 working days. You can simply order it, but it is important to mention that we only send the order when it is complete.
Description
Catena Zapata Birth of Cabernet is more than just a wine—it's an ode to the origins of Cabernet Sauvignon, told through a poetic and symbolic story both within the wine and on its beautiful label. Legend has it that this grape was born from the love between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, depicted as a fox and a siren. Their child, Cabernet Sauvignon, is the globetrotter who found his way from the French Pyrenees to the majestic Andes of Mendoza. Click here for a short video about this new wine from Catena Zapata.
The grapes come from two high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza: La Pirámide in Agrelo and Angélica Sur in El Cepillo. Both are located above 950 meters and provide freshness, structure, and depth. The grapes are harvested by hand, fermented in concrete eggs and small stainless steel tanks, and then aged for 18 to 24 months in French oak—some new, some used. The result is a balanced, elegant wine with a strong backbone.
Vinification is done with hand-harvested grapes, fermenting in concrete eggs, small stainless steel tanks, and French oak roller fermenters. The wine then ages for 18 to 24 months in French oak barrels of varying ages, contributing to its elegance and depth. Winemaker Alejandro Vigil, known for his innovative style and precision, creates a wine that is both powerful and refined.
Catena Zapata: Pioneers of High-Altitude Terroir
Catena Zapata has been a household name in Argentina since 1902. Nicola Catena started with Malbec, but it was his grandson Nicolás who truly put the estate on the map. Thanks to his focus on high-altitude vineyards and precise vinification, the house grew into a global player. Robert Parker even included Catena as the only South American winery in his book about the world's 100 largest wine producers.
Today, Nicolás's daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, is at the helm alongside head winemaker Alejandro Vigil. Together, they continue the tradition: deep study of terroir, preservation of old vines, and a focus on finesse rather than power.
Flavour profile: truffle, tobacco and an endless aftertaste
James Suckling awarded this wine 96 points, calling it a wine with "cigar box, tobacco, and dark truffles with lots of ripe dark olives." According to him, the dusty tannins build in a beautiful crescendo, and the finish is layered and endless. Ready to drink? From 2026, for those with the patience.
What to expect: ripe black fruit, spice, and a hint of dark chocolate. Not a blockbuster, but a wine with tension, freshness, and precision. Ideal for lovers of classic style with a modern touch.
Would you like to order Catena Zapata Birth of Cabernet 2021 online?
The 2021 Birth of Cabernet from Catena Zapata can be ordered through Grandcruwijnen. The bottles are stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, where the temperature and humidity are optimal for optimal storage.
You can choose to have the wine shipped or pick it up yourself in Dordrecht. When you pick it up, you'll automatically receive a discount, which will be visible during checkout when you select "Pick up." Ideal if you're in the area and want to browse our selection right away.
FACT: In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order this wine.
You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. This is a free service for our customers.
Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.
Specifications
Available as of | Aug 8, 2025 |
---|---|
Packing information | Box |
Type of Wine | Red |
Country | Argentina |
Region | Mendoza |
Appellation | Valle de Uco |
Icons | Icon South America |
Winery | Catena Zapata |
Grape | Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon |
Biological certified | No |
Natural wine | No |
Vegan | No |
Vintage | 2021 |
Drinking as of | 2025 |
Drinking till | 2038 |
Alcohol % | 13.5 |
Alcohol free/low | No |
Content | 0.75 ltr |
Oak aging | Yes |
Sparkling | No |
Dessert wine | No |
Closure | Cork |
James Suckling rating | 96 |
Tasting Profiles | Complex, Droog, Houtgerijpt, Krachtig, Rood fruit, Tannines, Vol |
Drink moments | Indruk maken, Lekker luxe |
Professional Reviews
James Suckling
Score
96
Avg Price (ex-tax)
$ 81
Catena Zapata Mendoza Birth of Cabernet 2021
Tuesday, Feb 27, 2024
Color
Red
Country
Argentina
Region
Mendoza
Vintage
2021
Download Shelftalker
Cigar box, tobacco and dark truffles with lots of ripe dark olives. Piles of dusty tannins grow on the palate in a crescendo, with great focus and freshness. The layered, lengthy finish goes on and on. Drink from 2026.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
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Wijnhuis
Bodega Catena Zapata ranks among the absolute top of the Argentine wine world. This family estate from Mendoza, founded in 1902, sparked a revolution in South American viticulture. Through high-altitude pioneering and an uncompromising focus on quality, Catena Zapata not only put the Malbec grape on the map, but also helped establish Argentina’s reputation as a serious wine-producing nation. In this article, you’ll learn more about the impressive history, the iconic wines, and the innovative character of this leading winery.
Bodega Catena Zapata: Iconic Winery from Mendoza
Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina’s most influential wineries and plays a key role in shaping the global reputation of Argentine fine wine. The winery was founded in 1902 by Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant who sought his fortune in Mendoza. He planted his first vineyard with the Malbec grape, which was then still an unknown variety in Argentina.
His son, Domingo Catena, carried on his father’s dream and became one of Mendoza’s largest vineyard owners. However, the family business also faced adversity: in the 1960s, Argentina was hit by economic instability and sky-high inflation.
Nicolás Catena: The Man Who Reinvented Argentine Wine
The young Nicolás Catena, freshly graduated as an economist, took over the business in the mid-1960s. At a time when Argentina was mainly known for bulk wine production, Nicolás made the bold decision to focus on quality. Against all odds, he sold off the table wine-producing part of the family business and retained only Bodegas Esmeralda, the foundation for high-quality wines.
His vision was revolutionary: Argentina had to leverage the quality of its terroir to compete at the highest international level. He began replanting Malbec and Chardonnay at high altitudes, including in Gualtallary, a subregion in the Uco Valley located over 1,500 meters above sea level. While many believed Malbec would never ripen at that altitude, Catena proved otherwise.
Malbec as an Argentine Icon
The Malbec grape is now inseparably linked to Argentina — largely thanks to Nicolás Catena. In 1994, he released his first Catena Malbec, made from old vines in the Adrianna Vineyard. This vineyard turned out to be of exceptional quality and helped elevate the global reputation of Malbec.
Catena even planted 145 different Malbec clones and rigorously tested their suitability. Ultimately, he selected the best clones for his top-tier wines, including those from the La Pirámide vineyard.
Laura Catena: Science Meets Winemaking
In 2001, Nicolás handed over the R&D project to his daughter Laura Catena, a medical doctor with degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Her scientific background brought a new dimension to the winemaking process. Together with her team, she focused on the extreme microclimates of the high-altitude vineyards, which led to unique expressions of Malbec.
In 2004, the decision was made to ferment the grapes from these vineyards directly in new French oak barrels. This resulted in three groundbreaking Malbecs that today stand as symbols of the winery’s innovative power.
The Wines of Catena Zapata: Five Distinct Lines
The winery produces five wine lines, each with its own character and level of quality:
- Catena Zapata: The flagship cuvées, made only in exceptional vintages.
- Catena Alta: Wines from the best parcels of high-altitude vineyards.
- Catena: The core line, balancing elegance and typicity.
- Alamos: Accessible wines with excellent value for money.
- Argento: The most commercial line, aimed at a broader market (Note: this line was later spun off and is no longer directly part of Catena Zapata).
All of these wines come from vineyards located at 900 meters or higher, clearly emphasizing Catena Zapata’s commitment to terroir and elevation.
Innovation, Vision, and Terroir at Catena Zapata
Catena Zapata is a textbook example of how vision, perseverance, and innovation can lead to international acclaim. From the first Malbec plantings in 1902 to Laura Catena’s cutting-edge vinification methods, the winery continues to evolve without losing sight of its roots.
The iconic winery building, shaped like a Mayan pyramid and designed in the 1990s, symbolizes the connection between past and future. It serves as the physical and philosophical heart of the estate.
Buying Wines from Bodega Catena Zapata at Grandcruwijnen?
At Grandcruwijnen, we offer a wide selection of Catena wines. Whether you're looking for an approachable Alamos Malbec or an impressive Catena Alta Chardonnay, you'll find it in our assortment. Order easily online or pick up your wines at our pickup center in Dordrecht. Our sommeliers are happy to advise you on the best food pairings for your favorite Catena wines.
Catena Zapata Birth of Cabernet is more than just a wine—it's an ode to the origins of Cabernet Sauvignon, told through a poetic and symbolic story both within the wine and on its beautiful label. Legend has it that this grape was born from the love between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, depicted as a fox and a siren. Their child, Cabernet Sauvignon, is the globetrotter who found his way from the French Pyrenees to the majestic Andes of Mendoza. Click here for a short video about this new wine from Catena Zapata.
The grapes come from two high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza: La Pirámide in Agrelo and Angélica Sur in El Cepillo. Both are located above 950 meters and provide freshness, structure, and depth. The grapes are harvested by hand, fermented in concrete eggs and small stainless steel tanks, and then aged for 18 to 24 months in French oak—some new, some used. The result is a balanced, elegant wine with a strong backbone.
Vinification is done with hand-harvested grapes, fermenting in concrete eggs, small stainless steel tanks, and French oak roller fermenters. The wine then ages for 18 to 24 months in French oak barrels of varying ages, contributing to its elegance and depth. Winemaker Alejandro Vigil, known for his innovative style and precision, creates a wine that is both powerful and refined.
Catena Zapata: Pioneers of High-Altitude Terroir
Catena Zapata has been a household name in Argentina since 1902. Nicola Catena started with Malbec, but it was his grandson Nicolás who truly put the estate on the map. Thanks to his focus on high-altitude vineyards and precise vinification, the house grew into a global player. Robert Parker even included Catena as the only South American winery in his book about the world's 100 largest wine producers.
Today, Nicolás's daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, is at the helm alongside head winemaker Alejandro Vigil. Together, they continue the tradition: deep study of terroir, preservation of old vines, and a focus on finesse rather than power.
Flavour profile: truffle, tobacco and an endless aftertaste
James Suckling awarded this wine 96 points, calling it a wine with "cigar box, tobacco, and dark truffles with lots of ripe dark olives." According to him, the dusty tannins build in a beautiful crescendo, and the finish is layered and endless. Ready to drink? From 2026, for those with the patience.
What to expect: ripe black fruit, spice, and a hint of dark chocolate. Not a blockbuster, but a wine with tension, freshness, and precision. Ideal for lovers of classic style with a modern touch.
Would you like to order Catena Zapata Birth of Cabernet 2021 online?
The 2021 Birth of Cabernet from Catena Zapata can be ordered through Grandcruwijnen. The bottles are stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, where the temperature and humidity are optimal for optimal storage.
You can choose to have the wine shipped or pick it up yourself in Dordrecht. When you pick it up, you'll automatically receive a discount, which will be visible during checkout when you select "Pick up." Ideal if you're in the area and want to browse our selection right away.
FACT: In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order this wine.
You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. This is a free service for our customers.
Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.
Available as of | Aug 8, 2025 |
---|---|
Packing information | Box |
Type of Wine | Red |
Country | Argentina |
Region | Mendoza |
Appellation | Valle de Uco |
Icons | Icon South America |
Winery | Catena Zapata |
Grape | Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon |
Biological certified | No |
Natural wine | No |
Vegan | No |
Vintage | 2021 |
Drinking as of | 2025 |
Drinking till | 2038 |
Alcohol % | 13.5 |
Alcohol free/low | No |
Content | 0.75 ltr |
Oak aging | Yes |
Sparkling | No |
Dessert wine | No |
Closure | Cork |
James Suckling rating | 96 |
Tasting Profiles | Complex, Droog, Houtgerijpt, Krachtig, Rood fruit, Tannines, Vol |
Drink moments | Indruk maken, Lekker luxe |
James Suckling
Score
96
Avg Price (ex-tax)
$ 81
Catena Zapata Mendoza Birth of Cabernet 2021
Tuesday, Feb 27, 2024
Color
Red
Country
Argentina
Region
Mendoza
Vintage
2021
Download Shelftalker
Cigar box, tobacco and dark truffles with lots of ripe dark olives. Piles of dusty tannins grow on the palate in a crescendo, with great focus and freshness. The layered, lengthy finish goes on and on. Drink from 2026.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua...
Exclusive Content
Sign in to unlock professional wine reviews from world-renowned critics
Bodega Catena Zapata ranks among the absolute top of the Argentine wine world. This family estate from Mendoza, founded in 1902, sparked a revolution in South American viticulture. Through high-altitude pioneering and an uncompromising focus on quality, Catena Zapata not only put the Malbec grape on the map, but also helped establish Argentina’s reputation as a serious wine-producing nation. In this article, you’ll learn more about the impressive history, the iconic wines, and the innovative character of this leading winery.
Bodega Catena Zapata: Iconic Winery from Mendoza
Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina’s most influential wineries and plays a key role in shaping the global reputation of Argentine fine wine. The winery was founded in 1902 by Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant who sought his fortune in Mendoza. He planted his first vineyard with the Malbec grape, which was then still an unknown variety in Argentina.
His son, Domingo Catena, carried on his father’s dream and became one of Mendoza’s largest vineyard owners. However, the family business also faced adversity: in the 1960s, Argentina was hit by economic instability and sky-high inflation.
Nicolás Catena: The Man Who Reinvented Argentine Wine
The young Nicolás Catena, freshly graduated as an economist, took over the business in the mid-1960s. At a time when Argentina was mainly known for bulk wine production, Nicolás made the bold decision to focus on quality. Against all odds, he sold off the table wine-producing part of the family business and retained only Bodegas Esmeralda, the foundation for high-quality wines.
His vision was revolutionary: Argentina had to leverage the quality of its terroir to compete at the highest international level. He began replanting Malbec and Chardonnay at high altitudes, including in Gualtallary, a subregion in the Uco Valley located over 1,500 meters above sea level. While many believed Malbec would never ripen at that altitude, Catena proved otherwise.
Malbec as an Argentine Icon
The Malbec grape is now inseparably linked to Argentina — largely thanks to Nicolás Catena. In 1994, he released his first Catena Malbec, made from old vines in the Adrianna Vineyard. This vineyard turned out to be of exceptional quality and helped elevate the global reputation of Malbec.
Catena even planted 145 different Malbec clones and rigorously tested their suitability. Ultimately, he selected the best clones for his top-tier wines, including those from the La Pirámide vineyard.
Laura Catena: Science Meets Winemaking
In 2001, Nicolás handed over the R&D project to his daughter Laura Catena, a medical doctor with degrees from Harvard and Stanford. Her scientific background brought a new dimension to the winemaking process. Together with her team, she focused on the extreme microclimates of the high-altitude vineyards, which led to unique expressions of Malbec.
In 2004, the decision was made to ferment the grapes from these vineyards directly in new French oak barrels. This resulted in three groundbreaking Malbecs that today stand as symbols of the winery’s innovative power.
The Wines of Catena Zapata: Five Distinct Lines
The winery produces five wine lines, each with its own character and level of quality:
- Catena Zapata: The flagship cuvées, made only in exceptional vintages.
- Catena Alta: Wines from the best parcels of high-altitude vineyards.
- Catena: The core line, balancing elegance and typicity.
- Alamos: Accessible wines with excellent value for money.
- Argento: The most commercial line, aimed at a broader market (Note: this line was later spun off and is no longer directly part of Catena Zapata).
All of these wines come from vineyards located at 900 meters or higher, clearly emphasizing Catena Zapata’s commitment to terroir and elevation.
Innovation, Vision, and Terroir at Catena Zapata
Catena Zapata is a textbook example of how vision, perseverance, and innovation can lead to international acclaim. From the first Malbec plantings in 1902 to Laura Catena’s cutting-edge vinification methods, the winery continues to evolve without losing sight of its roots.
The iconic winery building, shaped like a Mayan pyramid and designed in the 1990s, symbolizes the connection between past and future. It serves as the physical and philosophical heart of the estate.
Buying Wines from Bodega Catena Zapata at Grandcruwijnen?
At Grandcruwijnen, we offer a wide selection of Catena wines. Whether you're looking for an approachable Alamos Malbec or an impressive Catena Alta Chardonnay, you'll find it in our assortment. Order easily online or pick up your wines at our pickup center in Dordrecht. Our sommeliers are happy to advise you on the best food pairings for your favorite Catena wines.
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