Region and Vineyards
Clos Apalta is located in the Apalta Valley, part of the Colchagua Valley in Chile, near the town of Santa Cruz. This region features a unique North-to-South exposure, creating a meso-climate that is distinct from the surrounding Colchagua Valley. The vineyards are sheltered by the Coastal Cordillera hills, which form a natural horseshoe and regulate the sun's intensity, while the nearby Tinguiririca River provides a cooling influence. This combination ensures slow, even ripening of the grapes, preserving their acidity and promoting high levels of concentration.
The 48-hectare vineyard is planted on granitic soils originating from the Cretaceous period, with a mix of colluvial and alluvial materials. The terroir’s excellent drainage and varied slopes (2–15%) support biodynamic farming, certified by Demeter. Clos Apalta is an exemplar of sustainability, combining organic practices with cutting-edge precision.
Winemaking
The 2019 vintage is a blend of 70% Carmenère, 18% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Petit Verdot, hand-harvested from March 14 to May 13. The wine underwent a 4–5 week maceration with manual punchdowns, followed by fermentation in 68% 75-hL French oak vats and 33% new French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation occurred in new French oak barrels.
Clos Apalta aged for 24 months in French oak barrels (90% new, 10% second use). The wine was bottled without fining or filtration to preserve its purity, allowing for a complex and authentic expression of the Apalta terroir.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Intense dark purple-red with violet-blue edges.
- Aroma: A vibrant and expressive nose of ripe plums and dried figs, with layers of clove, sweet spices, and subtle balsamic hints.
- Palate: Concentrated and powerful at the start, opening into a lively mid-palate with a structured tannic frame. The finish is long and persistent, marked by vibrant freshness and elegance.
Did you know?
Clos Apalta is Chile’s only wine to be awarded Wine Spectator’s "Wine of the Year", a title it earned in 2005. It remains one of South America’s most awarded wines, achieving 99 points from James Suckling and a consistent place among Chile’s finest.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Slow-cooked beef short ribs: The wine’s bold tannins and spice complement the richness of braised beef.
- Lamb tagine with prunes and almonds: The wine’s ripe fruit and balsamic notes enhance the dish’s sweet and savory elements.
- Grilled portobello mushrooms: The earthy flavors of mushrooms pair beautifully with the wine’s complex structure and spice.
- Dark chocolate mousse: The wine’s elegant finish and fruity notes provide a luxurious contrast to bittersweet chocolate.
