2023 Luca Malbec Old Vine

The 2023 Luca Malbec Old Vine is a powerful and refined Malbec from Mendoza, sourced from old vines with low yields and high concentration.

Luca Winery, private project of Laura Catena

Luca is Laura Catena's private project. Laura has left her mark on the wine world and is often regarded as the face of Argentine wine, due to her significant contribution to the country's international reputation. She recently presented her long-term vision: "I want every collector in the world to have Nicolás Catena Zapata in their cellar – that is my dream."

Another ambition of Laura Catena was the founding of Luca, named after her eldest son. With Luca, she focuses on quality wines where terroir, low yields, and modern winemaking take center stage. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of 900 to 1,500 meters and are among the highest-lying plots in Mendoza. Here stand old vines that produce little but provide concentration and depth. Luca works with various grape varieties such as Malbec, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.

Origin and terroir

The grapes for this wine come from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza, primarily within the Uco Valley. The combination of altitude and climate results in warm days and cool nights. As a result, the grapes ripen slowly and retain their fresh acidity, which is essential for balance and tension in the wine.

The soils consist of alluvial deposits with sand, gravel, and limestone. The calcium content, in particular, contributes to the structure, finesse, and length of the wine. The poor, well-draining soils force the vines to root deeply, resulting in added complexity.

These conditions result in a Malbec of both power and refinement, combining ripe fruit with freshness and a clear structure.

Grapes and vinification

The old Malbec vines from Mendoza form the basis of this wine. Whereas these grapes used to often disappear into bulk production, here they receive the attention they deserve. Yields are deliberately kept low to enhance quality.

After traditional vinification, the wine ages for approximately twelve months in oak barrels, of which about 35% are new and the remainder second-year. This provides extra structure and complexity without overpowering the fruit. Additionally, the wine has good aging potential.

Style and taste profile

In the glass, the wine displays a deep purplish-red color. The nose offers aromas of red and black fruit, such as cherries and blackberries, complemented by spices and notes of chocolate. On the palate, the wine is full and round, with lively acidity and soft tannins. The aroma of cherries comes to the fore clearly, with a subtle hint of espresso in the background. The finish is long and lingers with fruit and light spiciness.