Catena White Clay Semillon/Chenin Blanc - 2024 (750ml)

Semillón and Chenin Blanc used to be the two most widely planted white grape varieties in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza´s historical region for premium wines. Semillón came to Argentina in the 19th century and was planted with Malbec, just as it was in France. A century ago, the blend of Semillón and Chenin Blanc constituted the classic white wine of Argentina. This modern interpretation has intense minerality, rich texture, and a good grip on the palate.

Catena Appellation Luján de Cuyo White Clay is deeply aromatic with expressive citrus and peach with a rich and mineral finish. This blend of Semillón and Chenin Blanc is Argentina’s century-old traditional white wine.

93 points Vinous

The 2024 White Clay Catena Appellation Luján de Cuyo blends 60% Sémillon and 40% Chenin Blanc from Luján de Cuyo. It’s greenish in hue, with oxidative hints of honey, white flowers and peach. Savory on the palate, this offers good weight, creamy texture and a long, broad finish. The 2024 has a richer profile compared to previous vintages. - By Joaquín Hidalgo on August 2025

91 points Wine Review Online

In a return to past tradition, the Catena Zapata winery has created White Clay, a blend of Sémillon and Chenin Blanc. A century ago, Sémillon and Chenin Blanc were widely planted white grapes in Argentina and they were commonly blended together. White Clay is named for the clay-rich and stony soil in the vineyard at a 3000+ foot elevation. Aged in stainless steel tanks and concrete eggs, it is a layered, pure and delicious blend of 60% Sémillon and 40% Chenin that will make anyone a fan of this classic and nearly forgotten combination. The nose offers scents of ripe pear, apple, pineapple, peach and guava. On the palate, it is luscious and pure, with layers of pear, peach and tropical fruits underlain by floral, cream and spice hints. The rich fruit is underscored by a creamy texture and the finish is refreshing and dry. Wayne Belding