Harvest 2022: Argentina

Despite having relatively stable weather conditions, naturally not all vintages in Argentina are the same – and it seems like 2022 was an exceptional one for producers across the country, particularly for Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. While some parts of the country were affected by frost and hail, resulting in lower than average yields, the quality of the surviving grapes is outstanding, according to the latest harvest reports.

Catena, Mendonza

2022 was an exceptional year at Catena Zapata from every possible qualitative standpoint. Throughout Mendoza, both in the Primera Zona (closer to Mendoza city) and in the Uco Valley, the wines have optimal acidity, great fruit concentration, and desirable alcohol levels.

Alejandro Vigil, Catena’s Head Winemaker says: “The best year I have lived through.” Yet, it was a roller coaster sort of year with two big frosts and a shorter time between the beginning and end of harvest, which required great dedication and endurance from all our staff at the vineyards and winery. Because weather patterns were so unpredictable, the 2022 vintage required deep knowledge of every region and vineyard.”

A dry spring was conducive to frost in the Uco Valley, generally remedied by the lighting of bougies. “There were a few big snowstorms over the winter which made us vintners and the Mendoza skiers happy”, said Laura Catena.  Glacier water was particularly important this year, as summer and spring were especially dry, with 15-40% less rain in most areas of Mendonza. It was thanks to its abundance that the producer was able to maintain a healthy canopy and yields were not reduced beyond the effects of frost.

The ripening season witnessed temperatures lower than usual, contributing to an exceptional concentration and balance. These cooler temperatures carried forward into the autumn, which allowed the grapes to ripen slowly but fully, especially in areas with naturally low yields.