Clos Apalta 2016

Tasting characteristics and advice for Clos Apalta 2016

Tasting

On tasting, Clos Apalta 2016 reveals an incredible aromatic expression. The presence of Merlot shows through with black-fruit notes reminiscent of cherry and blackberry. The pre-phylloxera Cabernet Sauvignon vines bring lovely red-fruit notes, joined by hints of ripe bell pepper and black olives, evolving toward toasted, smoky empyreumatic nuances. Carmenère, meanwhile, lends the wine subtle spicy notes of black pepper. On the palate, Clos Apalta 2016 offers great depth and richness while remaining precise and structured by fine tannins. Powerful, elegant and perfectly balanced, Clos Apalta 2016 is unquestionably a very great vintage that continues to write the history of Chile’s great wines.

The freshness and aromatic intensity of a great Chilean red wine

The estate

Located in the magnificent Colchaga Valley, Clos Apalta has become one of the most renowned estates in Chile. On an exceptional terroir, the vineyard spans 60 hectares of vines, some of which are over 80 years old. Clos Apalta’s microclimate, combined with carefully preserved expertise, is the cornerstone behind the creation of truly outstanding artisan wines.

The wine

A superb success for the vintage, Clos Apalta 2016 was unanimously praised by international critics, receiving a score of 96/100 from Wine Advocate and 99/100 from James Suckling.
After 10 years of bottle aging in the estate’s cellars, this Central Valley wine is released onto the market once again, exhaling its refinement and aromatic expression.

The vintage

2016 was one of the hottest vintages in recent years in Chile. The vine’s growing cycle experienced a certain delay, offset by a warm summer that made it possible to obtain grapes at perfect phenolic ripeness. At Clos Apalta, harvesting took place according to the ripeness of each plot and each grape variety. It began on March 10 with the Merlots and ended in mid-April with the Carmenère, with grapes picked in perfect sanitary condition.

Grape varieties

Carmenère (64%), Cabernet Sauvignon (19%), Merlot (17%).