Catena Zapata "San Carlos" Cabernet Franc

Cool mountain air, ancient soils, and a whisper of the Andes.
In the heart of Mendoza’s Uco Valley lies San Carlos, a place where the vineyards breathe the cool air of the Andes and the soil tells a story of stones, sand, and time. Here, at altitudes above 1,000 metres, Cabernet Franc finds its perfect expression — elegant and aromatic, shaped by sunlight and mountain winds. The result is a wine that marries grace and structure, revealing the depth of this noble grape in a new light.

The Appellation San Carlos Cabernet Franc is hand-harvested from old vines rooted in alluvial soils rich in limestone. Fermentation with native yeasts preserves the purity of the fruit, while gentle ageing in French oak barrels adds polish and nuance. The outcome is a wine that’s both lifted and layered — a portrait of place, precision, and balance.

In the glass, it shimmers with deep ruby tones. The nose offers a fragrant interplay of wild berries, violets, bell pepper leaf, and graphite. On the palate, it’s elegant and silky, with redcurrant and cassis notes framed by fine tannins and a cool, mineral edge. The finish is long, savoury, and refined — the mark of true high-altitude craftsmanship. For wine lovers in Ireland, San Carlos Cabernet Franc is a revelation: vibrant, food-friendly, and full of quiet sophistication.

Why we love it:
San Carlos Cabernet Franc is a study in elegance. It takes the classic structure of the grape and gives it a distinctly Argentine accent — fresh, perfumed, and balanced. A superb alternative to Malbec for those who appreciate complexity and finesse.