Catena Wine Dinner at Americas Restaurant

Last night, I went to a wine dinner at Americas on Post Oak in Houston, Tx. It featured Catena Wines from Mendoza, Argentina. I always love attending this type of event. Being able to enjoy a menu that has been carefully thought out and designed to pair with selected wines always makes for a more special dining experience. The wines were fantastic with the meal and most (w/ the exception of #3) are readily available.
The menu:

Catena Chardonnay '08 / Plantain Crusted Shrimp w/ cilantro slaw
Catena Alta Chardonnay '07 / Iceberg wedge salad w/ blue cheese dressing, avocado, bacon and grape tomatos
Catena Angelica Zapata Malbec '04 / Smoked lamb lollichops w/ anticucho marinade & yuca fries
Catena Alta Malbec '06 / Aged beef tenderloin, chimichurri, yuca, pickled onion, bearnaise
Alma Negra Sparkling Rose of Malbec '09 / Tres Leche

The Catena family has owned and operated vineyards in Mendoza since 1902 and the winery has remained under their control for 3 generations now. In 1992, they helped set new standards for quality for Argentine wine with the Catena Alta wines. They received outstanding reviews then and continue to do so today.
I plan on adding the sparkling malbec to my cellar. That was new to me and I really enjoyed it. Raspberry/strawberry aromas with hints of rose petals mixed with a smooth acidity. It will be a fun, new alternative patio sipper in the Texas heat which will continue for awhile and at aproximately $16 a bottle, it won't break the bank.

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