Ernesto Catena Tikal Natural 2014

Description

Ernesto Catena is the eldest son of Nicolás Catena of Catena Zapata, Argentina’s largest and most respected winemaking families. Considered a ”bit of a rockstar” of modern Argentinian winemaking. His access to the finest old vine material (thanks to the catena empire) has produced the goods .. and I understand why the best restaurants in Buenos Aires clamour to list his wines!  A champion of alternative varietals, blends, bio-dynamic wines and even ‘natural wines’.

Certified Organic Malbec (60%) and Syrah (40%) from Biodynamic vineyards in Vistaflores (the most prestigious growing sub region in Uco Valley), Tunuyan in Mendoza at 1000 m above sea level. The grapes are grown organically and hand-harvested and aged 10 months in a combination of new and used French and American oak.

This gorgeous Malbec blend has it all… its rich almost hedonistic and yet refined with fine grained tannins, balance and a long finish.  It has a beautiful pomegranate color and aroma of fresh red cherries with light French oak undertones. The palate is fresh and lively with black raspberry and spiced mocha notes. Seriously polished vino here with a couple of years bottle age.  Incredibly easy to drink on its own.

90 points, The Wine Advocate, Dec 2016 “The 2014 Natural is a blend of 60% Malbec and 40% Syrah sourced from 12-year-old organically- and biodynamically-farmed vineyards in Vista Flores, in the Valle de Uco. The wine matured in a mixture of new and old French and American oak barrels for some eight months. There is less ripeness and extraction than in previous vintages, and even if 2014 was riper and warmer than 2015, it’s still nicely balanced and keeps a core of acidity and fruit-driven flavors. Easy to drink and pleasant.”

90 Points, Vinous, March 2016 “Full medium ruby. Cassis, violet and espresso on the nose, with a touch of reduction. Concentrated, distinctly saline wine with a layered texture and lovely concentration to its black raspberry and spice flavors. Serious wine with ripe, chewy tannins and noteworthy length.”

RRP $45

(Also available as Special 6 Pack Buy .. Click Here)