NICOLAS 2015, CATENA ZAPATA

The inaugural 1997 vintage of this Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec blend set a new standard of quality for wines from South America when it won a series of blind tastings against first growths and other prestigious cuvées from around the world.

Nicolas Catena Zapata has an intense, deep purple color with bluish-black tones. On the nose, aromas of black fruits –blackberries, black cherries, black plums – predominate with subtle notes of vanilla and dark chocolate intermingled with savory hints of green olive and a stony minerality. On the palate, the wine is tremendously complex, unfolding layer upon layer of red currant, eucalyptus, and black pepper flavors . Black cherries and blackberries give way to cassis followed by a hint of saline minerality. The wine is remarkably concentrated with a firm tannic structure providing the backbone for the lush fruit. The finish is long, a foretoken of the long aging potential of this Argentine masterpiece.

Let the wine open in a decanter while you grill a Bone-in Ribeye Steak to perfection. Pour yourself a glass. Bliss.