2009 Clos Apalta
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Tasting notes
The flagship 2009 Clos Apalta is a blend of 78% Carmenere, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot that is raised in new French oak over 24 months. It has a reticent nose at first that demands some coaxing, eventually offering black cherries, red currant and vanilla aromas that remain tight in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine balance, grainy ripe tannins, a core of blackberry and blueberry fruit laced with dark chocolate and a touch of tobacco. The symmetry and focus in this wine is admirable. It should age better than the 2001. Drink 2013-2022. Founded in 1994 by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle, the French family known for producing Grand Marnier, Lapostolle aim is to “create world-class wines using French expertise and the superb terroir of Chile.” They own vineyards in Casablanca in the Cachapoal and Colchagua Valleys and the vines are organically and biodynamically managed. Michel Rolland is consultant at Casa Lapostolle and I found their range consistent as well as offering good value. Importer: Marnier Lapostolle Inc, New York, NY; www.grandmarnier.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Wine Spectator
More reviews and scores
Blackish purple. Prunes and lusciousness. Lifted on a palate that tends very slightly to portiness but it is saved from too high VA, just. A wine on a knife edge. Very round tannins and slightly obtrusive acidity. Just very slight hole in the middle. A little jammy but hugely ambitious. (JR)
The flagship 2009 Clos Apalta is a blend of 78% Carmenere, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot that is raised in new French oak over 24 months. It has a reticent nose at first that demands some coaxing, eventually offering black cherries, red currant and vanilla aromas that remain tight in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine balance, grainy ripe tannins, a core of blackberry and blueberry fruit laced with dark chocolate and a touch of tobacco. The symmetry and focus in this wine is admirable. It should age better than the 2001. Drink 2013-2022. Dec 2012, www.robertparker.com
This gorgeous wine deftly balances polished cassis, dark cherry reduction and blueberry notes on a compact frame. Structured, with silky tannins lining the long finish that lingers on with hints of apple wood, spice box and underbrush. Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2020. 6,361 cases made. Dec 2012, www.winespectator.com
About the producer
Chile’s Clos Apalta is arguably South America’s most successful estate, garnering praise from the world’s leading wine critics and connoisseurs. The 2005 vintage was named Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year – the only South American wine to do so – and the wines continue to impress.