Another brilliant and unquestionably world-class wine from this estate, the 2023 Clos Apalte checks in as 66% Carmenere, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 13% Merlot that was aged 24 months in 80% new French oak. Darker berries, leafy tobacco, red peppercorns, and graphite, as well as a beautiful floral character, all emerge from the glass. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it's pure, balanced, and elegant, with fine tannins, remarkable purity, and a great finish. I love it today, yet it will drink well for two decades. Drink 2026-2045.
98 points, Jeb Dunnuck (Mar 2026)
The 2023 Clos Apalta (66% Carménère, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot) opens with boldo and black fruit, along with a hint of soft ash and well-defined oak on the nose. The vintage streamlines the palate and adds fluidity, while lightly grippy tannins provide structure and grip, balanced by the estate's plush style. It is long on the finish, filling the palate and echoing the aromatics. A serious wine that increasingly reflects its origin and terroir.
97 points, Joaquín Hidalgo, Vinous (Jul 2026)
Deep but fleshier and rounder this year, showing more openness and supple fruit. A touch of balsamic as well, with some dark olives and hints of violets and paprika to the rich but honest core. Full-bodied with a creamy center palate. Long and resolved in the finish. A blend of 66% carmenere, 21% cabernet sauvignon and 13% merlot. Aged 19 months in barrels, including 70% new oak. Drink or hold.
97 points, Zekun Shuai, James Suckling (Jul 2026)
Spiced plum, cassis, liquorice root, fennel, this is full of powerful brambled fruit character, mouthwatering salinity on the finish, great quality, intense and full of estate character. 70% new oak, 15% in larger oak. Andrea Léon winemaker.
96 points, Jane Anson (Aug 2026)
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