Catena Zapata

Catena Zapata is a winery in Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo, known for its building shaped like a Mayan pyramid, which can be seen from afar among the vineyards. It is now led by Laura Catena and is one of the most recognized Argentine wine brands in the world: in 2023 it was named Best Vineyard in the World at the World's Best Vineyards ranking, and in 2024 it entered that ranking's Hall of Fame.

Tours, tastings and dining

The visit goes through the pyramid and down to the underground cellar, where a guided tasting of the winery's top labels is held, such as the Malbec Argentino and the wines from the Adrianna vineyard. There are themed experiences, for example "master blender for a day", and also tastings of vermouth, grappa and brandy made at the winery's distillery, located underground. Tours last between one and one and a half hours, and groups are small.

On the estate is Angélica Cocina Maestra, the winery's restaurant, which holds one Michelin star and one green star for its sustainable approach. At lunchtime it offers a multi-course menu built around the wines (the "Wine First" concept), with pairings that may include limited series and library vintages.

Wines and landscape

The Adrianna vineyard, planted at about 1,500 meters above sea level in the Uco Valley, produces wines that international critics have rated 100 points several times, such as River Malbec, Mundus Bacillus Terrae and White Bones Chardonnay. In Agrelo, the pyramid is surrounded by vines with the Andes mountain range in the background. The winery also has the Catena Institute of Wine, which carries out research and offers courses and seminars on high-altitude viticulture.

How to visit

The winery is on Cobos Street, in Agrelo's wine district, about 20 minutes from Mendoza City. It welcomes visitors Monday to Saturday, and reservations are always required, both for tours and for the restaurant, which takes separate reservations online, by email or on WhatsApp. The restaurant offers transfers from some hotels. Its wines can be bought at the winery's shop.