Part 2 of 3 — Catena Zapata Dynasty
The Gualtallary Epiphany
Chapter 2: Planting Vines at 5,000 Feet Elevation
Page 2 of 3
66% Completed
The High-Altitude Epiphany: Gualtallary at 5,000 Feet
In 1992, Nicolás planted the Adrianna Vineyard in Gualtallary (Tupungato, Uco Valley) at nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Local viticulturists warned him that grapes would never ripen at such extreme mountain chills. But Catena discovered something extraordinary: at extreme elevation, intense solar UV radiation causes Malbec grape skins to thicken dramatically, creating silky, velvet tannins, intense violet floral aromas, and vibrant natural acidity.
