The 2014 Clos Apalta is an iconic Chilean wine from the heart of the Colchagua Valley, one of Chile's most famous wine regions. This flagship wine from ViƱa Lapostolle combines the elegance of classic Bordeaux blends with the ripe, expressive notes of the Chilean terroir. It is a powerful, complex wine that confirms the quality and reputation of Clos Apalta internationally. James Suckling even awarded this wine 100 points, calling the aromas of fresh herbs, dark fruit, and subtle floral notes impressively exquisite.
About Clos Apalta
Clos Apalta is a unique wine estate in the Apalta Valley, known for its exceptional microclimate and diverse soil types, ranging from granite and sandstone to clay. This variety contributes to the richness and complexity of the wines. Founded by the Marnier-Lapostolle family, the estate is internationally renowned for its precision and finesse.
The 2014 vintage
The 2014 vintage of Clos Apalta is known as a balanced vintage, offering both ripe fruit and fresh minerality. The season featured cool nights and temperate days, resulting in slow and even ripening of the grapes. This resulted in a wine that is elegant and complex, with excellent structure and aging potential. As Suckling emphasized, the wine offers a linear structure and ultra-fine tannins, underscoring the precision and perfection of this vintage.
Grapes and vinification
The 2014 Clos Apalta is a blend of CarmenĆØre, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The grapes are hand-harvested and selected for optimal quality. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, followed by aging for 18 to 24 months in new French oak barrels. This combination of grapes and aging gives the wine its deep structure, rich aromas, and long finish.
Color, smell and taste
In the glass, the Clos Apalta 2014 reveals a deep ruby red color with purple reflections. The aroma is intense and complex, with layers of cassis, black cherry, plum, cocoa, subtle spice, and floral notes. On the palate, the wine is powerful and full-bodied, with velvety tannins and well-integrated acidity. The ripe fruit is accompanied by nuances of cedar, leather, mineral notes, and a hint of warm stone, giving the wine a long and elegant finish.
Storage potential and serving tips
The 2014 Clos Apalta can be enjoyed now, but will reach its peak between 2020 and 2035. Decant the wine at least an hour before serving to allow the aromas to fully develop. Serve at a temperature of 16-18Ā°C. Its structure and complexity make this wine ideal for special dinners or for storing in a carefully conditioned cellar.
Wine and food pairings
- Red meat: grilled beef, rack of lamb or game dishes.
- Stews: beef stew with herbs, tagine or slow-cooked dishes.
- Rich cheeses: hard cheeses such as Manchego or ComtƩ.
- Roasted vegetables: with Mediterranean herbs, for example peppers, aubergines or pumpkin.
Order and collect from Grandcruwijnen
The 2014 Clos Apalta is available through our webshop and can be picked up immediately at our Wine Warehouse in Dordrecht. You'll benefit from professional advice from our sommelier on opening, decanting, and pairing with food. Ideal for lovers of powerful, complex wines with international allure.
Conclusion
The 2014 Clos Apalta is a wine that seamlessly combines power, finesse, and complexity. With its deep color, rich aromas, and long finish, this is a top Chilean wine that will shine both now and in the years to come. James Suckling's 100-point score underscores the exceptional level of precision, perfection, and elegance this wine offers.
