Powerhouse Pionera: Laura Catena

The Big Sip

We’re kicking off 2023 with legendary face of vino Argentina: Dr. Laura Catena. As I sat with Laura I was continuously in awe of her journey and the "Laura of all Trades" that she is. Vintner, author, and scientist are just a few of the titles that come to mind. Named by Latino Leaders as one of the 100 Most Influential Latinas, Laura is certainly making her mark on the world. As a 4th generation winemaker, Laura is currently the Managing Director of Catena Zapata, a winery founded in 1902 by her great grandfather Nicola. She is also the owner of Luca Wines and established the Catena Institute of Wine in Argentina, which also has a partnership with UC Davis. With a vision to revive and revolutionize the perception of Argentinian wines, Laura joined her father, Nicola, on a journey to pioneer a new focus in the world of wine – high quality, high-altitude grape growing, an incredibly instrumental tool in the success and perception of Argentine wine to this date. She’s continuously pushing the limits and literally reaching new heights, with some of her vineyards elevated at the highest in the world. Through all her great work as a vintner, Laura is also the author of three books—Vino Argentino, Oro En Los Viñedos , and Malbec: Mon Amour—of which have been listed as the best in the world for wine history, featured in Forbes, Decanter, The Washington Post, and included in Oprah Magazine’s list of the World’s Top Women Vintners. As a Harvard and Stanford trained physician and biologist, Laura has spent much of her lifetime flying to and from Argentina and California, to practice medicine as a Doctor. Yes, you read that right—an Emergency Physician at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, which started far before she chose to help her dad put Argentina on the map. There is nothing this powerhouse, inspiring Latina can’t do. Rest assured, through and through, you can guarantee Laura is breathing new life into everything she touches. #SipWithUs as we hear from the legendary, Argentinian trailblazer herself! Don't forget to follow along on socials and support the wonderful work BIPOC leaders are doing in wine! @lauracatenamd @thebigsipseries