2024 Catena Malbec

This is the wine that introduced most of the world to good Malbec. The classic Catena Malbec is Bodega Catena Zapata's high-altitude Mendoza bottling — drawn from vineyards across the province, blended for consistency and character, and priced so you can drink it on a Wednesday without a second thought.

The 2024 comes in at around 13.5% and is made with care you don't always find at this level: an extended cold maceration to draw out colour and perfume gently, then a fermentation and long total maceration. It smells of ripe red and dark fruit with delicate florals and a hint of vanilla, leather and mocha. The palate is expressive — fresh plum, a whisper of balsamic and violet — soft and rich in the mouth but kept lively by bright acidity. This vintage feels a touch slimmer and more agile than some, which only makes it easier to drink.

No need to wait: open it now, and it's every bit as happy with a midweek supper as a weekend roast.

How to Serve

Serve at 16–17°C in a large glass. A quick fifteen minutes' air is all it needs; decanting is optional.

Where to Drink It

Gaucho for the full Argentine steak experience. Or Zelman Meats in Soho for something off the grill without the fuss.

Food Pairings

Burgers, ribs, a Sunday roast — this is a proper crowd-pleaser. Grilled steak with chimichurri never misses.