Catena Zapata, Catena Alta Historic Rows Chardonnay, 2020

Bodega Catena is one of Argentina`s leading producers which was founded in 1902, and is now run by the dynamic fourth generation winemaker; Laura Catena. Globally renowned for their Malbec-based wines crafted by the `Godfather of Malbec`, Nicolás Catena, this pioneering estate are now turning heads with this Catena Alta Chardonnay; a blend created from historic rows in their iconic Adrianna vineyard in Gualtallary (chalk), and Domingo vineyard in Tupungato (gravel). Alta meaning `high` in Spanish (in reference to the vineyards altitudes of 1,120-1,450m), combined with expert winemaking has resulted in a rounded, rich, and complex, yet balanced and pure Chardonnay. It has been well received by wine critics scoring 92-94 points on average and at just £20 per bottle, it seriously overdelivers for its price tag!

Bright, vibrant aromas of lemon, white peach and apricot verging toward tropical fruit with flinty undertones. Excellent, pure, luscious, and juicy mid-palate balanced by creamy texture and uplifting acidity. There`s wonderful drive and precision here that flows into a core of further exotic fruit and white pepper spice. This oozes real class and sophistication. Bravo!

This is a serious white with dried apple, pineapple and white peach to the stone and honeysuckle character. Full-bodied, bright and fruity with a fascinating undertone of spice and cream. Drink or hold. 94/100 points. James Suckling.

The textbook barrel-fermented 2019 Catena Alta Chardonnay was produced in 500-liter barrels with wild yeasts, and the élevage was in those same barrels with lees and lasted for 14 months. It has an expressive and characterful nose that combines notes of dry herbs, white flowers and fruit. It`s elegant with good integration of the oak and has great freshness and very good acidity. Drink 2021-2026. 93/100 points. Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate)

Opulent, mouthfilling, with a rich palate but also taut acidity. Buttery pastry, white peach and wild flowers. Bold and yet balanced – a crowd-pleasing style. Drink 2021-2026. 93/100 points. Amanda Barnes (Decanter)

Pressed in whole bunches, the 2019 Chardonnay Catena Alta combines grapes from Villa Bastias and Gualtallary, both in Tupungato. The mature perfume includes pear and apricot with herbal hints that soar over a beautifully deep layer of French oak in which the wine was fermented and spent 14 months. The butter and cream are held in check by the excellently judged acidic tension making this a velvety, delicate and refreshing white. Drink 2020-2024. 92/100 points. Joaquin Hidalgo (Vinous)