The wine of the year in 2008, as chosen by Wine Spectator, was Clos Apalta from Casa Lapostolle winery in Chile. This is quite a remarkable achievement, as it beat out some truly exceptional wines, including Premier Grand Cru and outstanding Pinot Noir offerings.
Clos Apalta is the pinnacle of quality for Casa Lapostolle, and it is a blend of several grape varieties. The wine is made up of 42% Carmenere, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot. This blend creates a wine that is both sultry and slinky, with a complexity and depth that is truly impressive.
The fact that a Chilean wine was named the wine of the year is a testament to the incredible strides that the Chilean wine industry has made in recent years. Chile is known for producing high-quality wines at great value, but to have a wine from this region outshine some of the world's most renowned wines is truly remarkable.
I had the opportunity to taste Clos Apalta a few years ago, and it was an unforgettable experience. The wine had an intense, deep ruby color, and the aromas were incredibly complex. I could detect notes of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, along with hints of tobacco, chocolate, and spices. On the palate, the wine was full-bodied and velvety, with well-integrated tannins and a long, lingering finish.
What sets Clos Apalta apart is its unique blend of grape varieties. Carmenere, a grape variety that was thought to be extinct for many years, has found a new home in Chile and adds a distinct character to the wine. It provides rich, dark fruit flavors and a unique herbal note that adds complexity to the blend.
The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the blend contribute to the wine's structure and depth, providing firm tannins and a backbone of black fruit flavors. The Petit Verdot adds a touch of spice and adds to the wine's overall complexity.
It is no surprise that Clos Apalta was named the wine of the year in 2008. It is a wine that showcases the best of what Chile has to offer – exceptional quality, unique flavors, and a sense of place. This recognition has helped put Chilean wines on the map and has cemented Casa Lapostolle as one of the premier wineries in the country.
The wine of the year in 2008, Clos Apalta, is a true masterpiece. It is a wine that defies expectations and showcases the incredible potential of Chilean wines. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply a lover of great wine, Clos Apalta is a must-try.