Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot * 75cl * 15% ABV * Colchagua Valley, Chile
This may be lesser-known than the majority of the world’s 100-point wines, but both the 2014 and 2015 Clos Apalta wines have been awarded this top score from James Suckling, making this one of the most exciting wineries in South America right now. A blend of Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, made with a nod to Bordeaux. This is still very young for the time being, but is showing a lot of promise in its melange of green bell pepper, eucalyptus, black and blue fruits and liquorice notes. Full and firm, this needs a good 5+ years to soften its tannins.
Drink to 2030. “Incredible character with such purity and polish. It goes on for minutes. A monumental wine for Chile. Unbelievable. 100 points.” James Suckling
Pair with barbecued lamb steaks.