In the heart of Chile’s Colchagua Valley, where the Andes Mountains cradle the landscape to the east, and the Pacific Ocean provides a cooling influence from the west, lies the captivating Clos Apalta Winery. Established in 1994 by Grand Marnier heiress Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and her husband Cyril de Bournet, this winery embarked on a visionary quest to redefine winemaking in the New World. The Colchagua Valley, known for its diverse microclimates, well-drained soils, and unique elevations, creates an environment where grapevines thrive, setting the stage for the birth of extraordinary wines.
A Tapestry of Terroir
Clos Apalta’s story is intimately woven into the terroir of the Colchagua Valley, a region celebrated for its viticultural richness. The winery itself, completed in 2005, stands as a testament to architectural innovation. Carved 35 meters into the rock below, the seven-floor gravity-fed facility allows for a gentle handling of the grapes, preserving the integrity of the winemaking process. The curved wooden staves of the winery, resembling a barrel, provide a mere hint of the intricate craftsmanship within, where tradition and innovation converge to allow the grapes to express the nuanced characteristics of the terroir.
The unique combination of warm days, cool nights, and well-drained soils in the Colchagua Valley sets the stage for grape cultivation that is both robust and refined. This exceptional terroir provides the foundation for Clos Apalta’s commitment to crafting wines that capture the essence of the region.
Clos Apalta Winery
Santa Cruz, Colchagua Valley, Chile +56 72 260 0613
Owner: Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle and Cyril de Bournet
Current Winemaker: Andrea León
The Architectural Marvel
Clos Apalta’s winery is not just a place of production; it’s a work of art seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. The architectural marvel, with its curved wooden exterior, evokes the imagery of a wine barrel emerging from the earth. The seven floors, descending into the rock, reflect a commitment to sustainable winemaking and a deep respect for the environment.
Visitors to Clos Apalta are treated to more than just a tasting experience; they step into a world where the harmony of nature and craftsmanship creates an immersive journey through the winemaking process. From the vineyards that dot the rolling hills to the cellars hewn into the rock, every element is carefully designed to showcase the terroir’s influence on the wines.
Crafting Icons – The Grape Varieties and Iconic Wines
Historical Roots and Varietal Selection
At the heart of Clos Apalta’s winemaking philosophy lies the historical lineage of its vines. Imported from Bordeaux before the Phylloxera crisis, some of the oldest vines in the region were planted as early as 1915. These venerable vines, resilient in the face of time, contribute to the winery’s unique character, infusing each bottle with a sense of legacy and continuity. Clos Apalta’s commitment to crafting wines of unparalleled distinction is reflected in the careful selection of grape varieties that thrive in the Colchagua Valley’s terroir.
Carménère: A Chilean Emblem
Carménère, often hailed as Chile’s signature grape, finds a home in the vineyards of Clos Apalta. Known for its deep red color, luscious fruit flavors, and velvety texture, Carménère imparts a unique Chilean identity to the wines of the region. The careful cultivation of Carménère vines ensures that each bottle encapsulates the essence of this emblematic grape, contributing to the complexity and depth that define Clos Apalta’s wines.
Merlot: Elegance in Every Glass
Merlot, celebrated for its approachable and velvety characteristics, flourishes in the Colchagua Valley’s climate. At Clos Apalta, Merlot adds to the overall elegance of the blends, contributing softness and a rich tapestry of flavors. The judicious blending of Merlot showcases the winemaker’s artistry in creating wines that captivate both novice and seasoned palates.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Structure and Sophistication
A staple in Bordeaux blends, Cabernet Sauvignon finds new expression in the vineyards of Clos Apalta. The warm days and cool nights of the Colchagua Valley provide an ideal environment for the gradual ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, resulting in wines that exhibit structure, depth, and a timeless sophistication.
Petit Verdot: The Art of Blending
Petit Verdot, often used as a blending grape, plays a crucial role in adding depth and complexity to Clos Apalta’s wines. Its intense color, firm tannins, and vibrant acidity contribute to the overall balance of the blends, elevating them to a level of distinction that defines the winery’s commitment to crafting exceptional wines.
Icons of Elegance – Clos Apalta’s Flagship Wines
Clos Apalta’s portfolio boasts a range of wines that reflect the artistry and dedication of its winemaking team. The flagship wine, Clos Apalta, stands as the pièce de résistance, a blend that harmoniously weaves together the unique characteristics of each grape variety. This iconic wine has garnered international acclaim, placing Clos Apalta firmly on the global stage.
Clos Apalta – A Symphony in a Bottle
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Clos Apalta is a Bordeaux-style blend that showcases the best of the Colchagua Valley’s terroir. The wine unfolds with layers of complexity, revealing notes of ripe fruit, subtle spices, and velvety tannins. Its lengthy finish and aging potential make it a collector’s item and a testament to the winery’s pursuit of excellence.
Le Petit Clos – A Tribute to Heritage
Le Petit Clos pays homage to the winery’s historical roots, featuring a blend of Carménère, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine captures the essence of the estate’s terroir, offering a more approachable yet equally captivating expression of Clos Apalta’s winemaking philosophy.
Clos Apalta Limited Edition – Crafting Rarity
For those seeking a truly exclusive experience, Clos Apalta Limited Edition represents the pinnacle of the winery’s craftsmanship. Produced in limited quantities, this wine exemplifies the art of blending and the pursuit of perfection, making it a sought-after treasure among wine enthusiasts.
