2022 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay

The Adrianna Vineyard, known as Catena Zapata’s "Grand Cru", lies at an altitude of about 1,500 meters and it's divided into several unique parcels, each with distinct soil profiles, microclimates and characteristics that contribute to the complexity of the wines.

The White Stones parcel is one of the most distinctive sections of the Adrianna Vineyard. This parcel gets its name from the large, white oval stones scattered throughout the soil. These stones, composed of alluvial deposits, play a vital role in the vineyard’s drainage and heat retention. The white stones reflect sunlight and store heat during the day, which helps maintain steady ripening conditions for the grapes, even in Mendoza’s high-altitude, cool-climate environment. This, combined with the calcareous subsoil, contributes to the parcel's hallmark minerality and precision. The wines from this parcel are known for their purity, focus, and long aging potential.

Other Reviews….
The 2022 Chardonnay Adrianna Vineyard White Stones hails from a cool and slightly dry vintage in the Uco Valley. Sourced from a small gravel and limestone plot in Gualtallary, it displays a green hue in the glass. Its aromas feature lime, green apple and herbs, with subtle notes of ginger and acacia. Dry, nimble and refreshing, the chalky texture enlivens the slightly lean palate, with a long-lasting, fruit-driven finish. A high-altitude wine, the 2022 growing season brought an extra layer of freshness to this Chardonnay. Drink 2024-2034.
97 points
Joaquín Hidalgo – Vinous

This is always minerally and incisive and very different from White Bones. This is more classic chardonnay, with lots of freshly squeezed lemons, wet stone, flint and seashells. Brisk acidity on a medium- to full-bodied palate. Tense and intense, but this is acid-driven with a fine touch of salinity that lingers at the end. Drink or hold.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com

At almost 5,000-feet elevation in the cool of the region, growing deep in rocky soils, the light-bodied 2022 Chardonnay Adrianna Vineyard White Stones features compellingly grippy texture that excites the palate. Like its sister, White Bones, it sees 12-16 months in used French oak barrel, coaxing a light touch of spice from the wood. Herbal, earthy, and textural above all, it sings in buzzy acidity and yet retains a refined mouthfeel of length and complex angles, digging deep into ethereal flavors of lemon rind and wet stone. Drink now through 2042. This is incredibly delicious. Drink 2025-2042.
98 points
Virginie Boone - JebDunnuck.com