Catena Zapata Adrianna White Bones Chardonnay 2022 (750ML)

100 JS / 98 VM / 96 TA / 19 JR

#17 James Suckling Top 100 2024

This is always aromatic, exotic and idiosyncratic, with its enchanting aromas of green fruit, green curry, citrus, ash, green passion fruit and spearmint. Almost full-bodied on the palate with lots of mineral tension. Bright acidity quickly takes over, followed by a long, bone-dry finish that goes on and on. So pure, unique and thought-provoking. Drink or hold.—James Suckling

Sourced from a parcel of the Adrianna Vineyard in Gualtallary, planted at 1,450 meters, the 2022 Chardonnay Adrianna Vineyard White Bones delivers a distinctive flavor. Crafted in a cool, sunny vintage, the chalky soils of Gualtallary lend a compact character to this high-altitude Chardonnay. Yellow in hue, it opens with aromas of hops, ivy and pea shoots, accompanied by hints of mint, sage, ginger and lime. Slightly concentrated, with vibrant energy and tension, it offers a blend of chalky texture, elevated acidity and a compact yet graceful palate. It lingers with long-lasting flavors and a subtly malic texture. This mountain white wine set a benchmark in 2009 and reaffirmed it in 2022. -- Joaquín Hidalgo, Vinous Media

Do I prefer White Bones to White Stones in 2022? To me, tey are different but equally delicious. Showing the influence of marine limestone, this is an intensely pithy, chiselled Chardonnay with finely judged oak integration, notes of lemongrass, greengage, wet stones, grapefruit and elderflower and a limering, chalky finish.-Tim Atkin MW