Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta

About this wine

Clos Apalta is the iconic flagship wine of Casa Lapostolle, produced in the Apalta Valley within the Colchagua Valley, Chile. Established by the Marnier-Lapostolle family and crafted under the guidance of renowned consultant Michel Rolland, this Bordeaux-style blend is dominated by Carmenère sourced from old vines. The wine is celebrated for its deep color, intense dark fruit aromas, silky tannins, and remarkable aging potential. It was ranked #1 by Wine Spectator for the 2008 vintage, confirming its place among the world's finest wines.

Sommelier's Note

"Clos Apalta is the definitive benchmark for Chilean luxury wine — a single sip erases any doubt that South America can rival the world's greatest Bordeaux."

Food Pairings

Pairs perfectly with grilled ribeye steak, roasted lamb, and game meats. It also complements aged hard cheeses and dark chocolate desserts. For a Japanese experience, try it with soy-glazed grilled eel (unagi no kabayaki) or wagyu sukiyaki — the wine's Carmenère-driven umami enhances these iconic Japanese flavors beautifully.

When to drink it

Ideal for milestone celebrations, anniversary dinners, corporate gifts for wine lovers, or as the centerpiece of a collector's tasting. A bottle of Clos Apalta signals that this moment matters.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Carmenère, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Style

Red

Price Range

¥15,000–25,000 (approx. USD 100–180)

Terroir & Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested and double-sorted. Fermentation occurs in French oak vats, followed by extended maceration to maximize extraction. The wine is aged for approximately 20–24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Only the finest lots are selected for the final blend, ensuring structural elegance and the seamless integration of oak.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grape varieties are used in Clos Apalta?

Clos Apalta is a Bordeaux-inspired blend dominated by Carmenère, complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The exact blend varies by vintage.

What does Clos Apalta taste like?

Expect intense notes of black cherry, plum, dark chocolate, and tobacco, supported by velvety tannins and a long, structured finish. With age, earthy and spicy complexity develops.

When is the best time to drink Clos Apalta?

It is best enjoyed between 5 to 15 years after the vintage to allow full complexity to develop, though top vintages can age for 20+ years.

Has Clos Apalta won any major awards?

Yes. The 2008 vintage was ranked #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator, cementing its status as one of South America's greatest wines.

What food pairs best with Clos Apalta?

Rich red meats such as grilled wagyu or roasted lamb are ideal. In Japanese cuisine, unagi no kabayaki (soy-glazed eel) and sukiyaki are outstanding matches.