Clos Apalta Vinothèque 2015 – The First Vintage to Achieve a Perfect 100-Point Score

Founded in 1997 by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and Cyril de Bournet, Clos Apalta has become an icon of Chilean winemaking, rooted in a truly exceptional terroir. This "Legend of Chile" is nestled in the Apalta Valley, an appellation officially recognised in 2018.

To highlight the extraordinary ageing potential of Chile’s finest wines, Charles de Bournet, representing the estate’s seventh generation, launched the Clos Apalta Vinothèque collection, beginning with the 2012 vintage. The 2015 release, after a decade of meticulous ageing in ideal conditions within Clos Apalta’s underground cellar, is now ready to be enjoyed by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Over time, its tannins have softened, its complexity has deepened, and its elegance has been refined.

The 2014 winter in Apalta was notably rainy, with temperatures higher than the previous season. Spring brought moderate conditions, ensuring even bud break and flowering. Summer remained temperate, aside from a few heat waves lasting five days in January. March 2015, however, was the warmest in decades. Despite these conditions, the harvested grapes displayed remarkable quality, with expressive aromatics and a well-structured tannic profile.

In the glass, the Clos Apalta Vinothèque 2015 presents a deep, dark red hue with purple highlights. The nose is intense and expressive, brimming with ripe black fruits like blackcurrant and plum, interwoven with hints of liquorice and cedar. Subtle oak and spice notes add further complexity. On the palate, the wine is rich and concentrated, with broad tannins that unfold into a velvety texture. Flavours of dark chocolate and mocha enhance its depth, leading to an exceptionally long and intricate finish.