Christie Kiley on October 6, 2014 0 Comments I love my job. Not only do I have great access to great wines on occasion, but I am also in contact with some great people from time to time as well. Over the years, I have discovered one thing. Well, in truth, I have discovered many things, but I am talking about wine in this case. There is one thing of which I hold dear to my heart–when it comes to food and wine. It always best when shared. Preferably you are sharing in the company of which you enjoy the most or with loved ones. It always seems to take the experience to another level. It may be one of the most basic meals, perhaps just simple comfort food with a simple wine even, but it is delicious and better than any of the top cuisine in the world when it is in the company of laughter, conversation and good people. What is also nice about my job, is that on occasion, I am not the only person who has to bring the wine. I love wine, and as this might attract other wine lovers, they will bring the wine, and most of the time, it is good stuff! Not too long ago, some good friends brought me this wine. I am quite sure the sharing aspect made it better, but I am also positive that it is a great wine all on its own. It was late afternoon and we all sat down for a bit of a small picnic over cured ham, Sopressata, soft cheeses; brie, smoked Gouda, a mix of artisan olives, a fresh crunchy baguette and delicious extra-virgin olive oil for some dipping. Along with some background music, it could not have been a better afternoon. The Vineyards I particularly enjoy single vineyard wines. They represent a place, a moment in time. They are, for the most part unadulterated and pure. The Domingo Vineyard of all the Catena vineyards, is their second highest vineyard in altitude sitting at 1,120 meters (3675 feet) above sea level. The altitude allows for the grapes to mature evenly with the cool nights and sunny days where the vines can warm in the close sunshine. At these altitudes, the vines are living in soils very much like you would find in Bordeaux, consisting of sand and clay. Though there is less humidity, the soils add a complexity to the wines and a touch of earthiness you can smell and adds character and backbone to the overall structure of the wine. The close proximity of the sun in the higher altitudes allows for the grapes to mutate and adapt to their harsh environments. The skins grow thicker which contribute to many layers in their wines and aromatic profiles. A Wine’s Story The first release of the Catena Alta Chardonnay was in 1995, by Nicolas Zapata, son of the original founding father of Catena Zapata wines. He was the second generation in line of the Zapata dynasty in Mendoza, Argentina, and contributed to really putting Catena Zapata wines on the map when it comes to high-end, handmade wines of the famous region. The Alta Chardonnay was the first of their experimental cool-climate wines from the Tupungato region of the northern Mendoza region and was sourced from Lot 4 of their Domingo Vineyard. The wine was a success and has been a tradition ever since. The 100% Chardonnay wine of the Catena Alta Chardonnay 2011 is a beautiful golden yellow with slight hints of green reflections. On the nose it is warm and welcoming with mature Golden Delicious apples, roasted pears with butter and brown sugar and hints of cinnamon, vanilla French bread, crunchy crème brulee topping. The layers of full-bodied citrus are seamless with lemon curd, lemon meringue and the aroma from the skin of a grapefruit. At first sip, the mouth-feel is surprisingly medium bodied and light with refreshing acidity and reminiscent of baked apple slices. The citrus from the nose kicks in on the palate too with mouthwatering, creamy acidity with a hint of tartness that keeps the wine light on your palate. It really is a lovely wine. For all of you in the northern hemisphere, this is a great wine to have with a slow roasted chicken, even game birds or water fowl. Thanksgiving is just around the corner too. Put this on the table for Turkey Day. Cheers! More Wine Reviews: Cakebread Napa Valley 2012 Chardonnay Animal Espumante Chardonnay-Pinot Noir ATS Vineyard Chardonnay 2011 from Cuvaison 2Oakville Sauvignon Blanc 2012 from Flora Springs Winery
