Beso de Dante 2020

WINE OVERVIEW

Luca is Laura Catena's passion project to rescue old vines and produce wines that express the history and soul of Mendoza's century-old vineyards. She believes that “old vines are family” and strives to highlight the vignerons behind the wines and preserve the genetic diversity of Mendoza's historic vines. Luca purchases fruit from small growers, allowing these families to continue farming for another generation. She replants her vineyards using massale selections from Mendoza's 100-year-old vineyards. The historic G-Lot parcels of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in Gualtallary were planted over 30 years ago and are at the edge of where grapes can ripen in Mendoza, at nearly 5,000 feet elevation. Laura Catena is a 4th generation vintner, mother of three, author, ER doctor, and one of the wine industry's most prominent voices. In 2023, she was given the first "Old Vine Hero" award by The Old Vine Conference. Luis Reginato works beside Laura as Luca's winemaker and the Vineyard Director for Catena Zapata Family Vineyards. Luca has had 10 wines recognized as Top 100 Wine of the Year. Luca is named after Laura's first son, who was born the same year the brand was founded.

Noteworthy Distictions

  • Female Producer
  • Certified Sustainable - Bodegas de Argentina

Tasting Notes

Aromas of cassis with mint notes and oak. Medium-bodied and classically structured with good density. The Cabernet fruit melds seamlessly with the Malbec, creating a well-structured and balanced blend with moderate tannins and a lengthy finish.

Food Pairing

This blend will pair well with any Cab-friendly dishes such as steak, pork, lamb, and strong cheeses. It can handle any dish with cream or butter sauces.

Tech Details

Hand-harvested from vineyards located in Altamira (La Consulta) and Gualtallary (Uco Valley).

Aged 18 months in 50% new and 50% 2nd use French barrels aged sur lies.

  • Varietal Composition: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Malbec, 10% Cabernet Franc
  • Region: Altamira (La Consulta) & Gualtallary (Uco Valley)
  • Avg Elevation: 3500 feet
  • Avg Age of Vines: 35 years
  • PH: 3.7
  • Alcohol: 13.5%
  • Size: 6/750ml
  • Cases Imported: 1,100
  • UPC: 835603001068