Region and Vineyards
Clos Apalta originates from the Apalta Valley, part of Chile's Colchagua region near Santa Cruz. This amphitheatre-shaped valley is framed by the Coastal Cordillera on three sides and the Tinguiririca River on the fourth, creating a natural cradle with a north-to-south exposure, rare in Chile. This orientation allows the sun's rays to be moderated at dawn and dusk by the surrounding hills, while the river provides cooling influences.
The soils are ancient, formed mainly in the Cretaceous period, and vary from decomposed granite with angular stones on the slopes to sandy and sandy-loam colluvial deposits with quartz and gravel on the flatter areas. These conditions ensure excellent drainage and vine balance. The 48 hectares dedicated to Clos Apalta include century-old vines (planted between 1915 and 1940) alongside younger vineyards replanted in 2005-2006. Certified organic and biodynamic, these vineyards consistently produce fruit of exceptional quality.
Winemaking
The 2019 vintage is a Bordeaux blend composed of 70% Carmenère, 18% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Petit Verdot. The harvest extended from mid-March to mid-May under dry, warm conditions that demanded precise irrigation and canopy management. Yields were carefully limited to around 40 hL/ha, ensuring concentration and intensity.
Fermentation took place in a mix of French oak vats (68%) and new French oak barrels (33%), with malolactic fermentation completed in new barrels. The wine underwent 4-5 weeks of maceration with manual punch-downs, maximizing extraction while preserving elegance. Ageing lasted 24 months in French oak barrels (90% new, 10% second use). Bottled without fining or filtration, Clos Apalta 2019 retains purity and textural depth. Alcohol reached 15% vol., reflecting the richness of the vintage.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep, intense purple with vivid violet-blue edges.
- Aroma: Expressive notes of ripe plum and dried fig, evolving into clove, sweet spice, and subtle herbal undertones.
- Palate: Concentrated and powerful at the attack, followed by a lively, expansive mid-palate. Tannins are structured yet polished, carrying into a remarkably long and layered finish.
Did you know?
Clos Apalta is the only South American wine to have been named Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator (2005 vintage). It has also achieved multiple perfect 100-point scores from international critics, cementing its status as one of the "Legends of Chile." The 2019 vintage was awarded 99 points by James Suckling and 95 points by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Rack of lamb with rosemary - the herbal notes of Carmenère and Petit Verdot enhance the dish's aromatic character.
- Braised short ribs - the wine's tannic backbone and dark fruit match the richness of slow-cooked beef.
- Duck breast with plum sauce - the ripe fruit intensity mirrors the sweet-savory glaze.
- Dark chocolate tart with spices - echoes the clove and sweet spice nuances of the wine.
