Bodega Catena Zapata

In 1902, Nicolas Catena, an Italian immigrant, planted his first vineyard in Mendoza, Argentina. The winery has remained under family control — now in its fourth generation — and is one of the few family-owned wine companies in Argentina that remains in Argentine hands. Owned today by Nicolás Catena and his daughter Laura, Bodega Catena Zapata is known as the pioneer of fine wine from Argentina, and Nicolás is recognized as the vintner who revolutionized wine quality in Argentina. Catena wines, first launched in 1992, set a new standard for quality in South America. The wines immediately proved the quality potential of Argentina and garnered the first outstanding reviews for Argentine wines from worldwide media Nicolas and his daughter Laura, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family's high altitude vineyards, has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. After more than 20 years, the wines of Catena continue to lead the way in Argentine viticulture and winemaking. The famous wine magazine Decanter has chosen Nicolas Catena Man of the Year 2009, crediting him with changing the direction of Argentina's wine industry.