Clos Apalta Colchagua Valley, Chile 2007

Clos Apalta Colchagua Valley, Chile 2007The Apalta Valley had an outstanding harvest in 2007 which is reflected in this magnum bottle of Clos Apalta. A blend of 61% Carmenre, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot. The nose is intense and multi layered, including aromas of spices, black and red fruits, herbs and a touch of led pencil. The palate is rich and fruit forward, filled with juicy tannins and followed by a long aftertaste.

honeyed and floral personality

Chassagne-Montrachet actually produces more red than white wine

this bone-dry and herbal field blend reveals an untamed and quite phenolic character at this early stage

The palate displays excellent concentration and richness

The Condrieu is then aged in barrels on fine lees for 12 to 18 months with stirring

its ripe yet stentorian tannins

the fruit had a 5 day cold soak before natural fermentation kicked in

The tasting

An excellent example

revealing aromas of white fruit—notably pear and apple—marzipan and sweet spices

featuring dishes meticulously designed to complement these exquisite wines

readers might think of them as an even more intense version of Guffens's 2017s—or