Ah, the 2021 Le Petit Clos Apalta—a wine that gallantly struts the stage “like a peacock at a formal gala, drawing every eye in the room. Jancis Robinson, the venerable queen of wine criticism, praises this Bordeaux-inspired Carmenère dominant blend complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc for its “magnetic charm.” With her discerning palate, she has an internal compass programmed to locate exquisite wines!
James Suckling, the gold-standard guru of wine appraisal, couldn’t resist heaping his accolades upon this cheeky little number. Describing it as a “deliciously easy-drinking wine with layers of fruit,” he makes it sound like a casual Sunday brunch wine that effortlessly evolves into an impromptu dance party. Who knew wine could inspire such jubilation?
2021 Le Petit Clos Apalta Tasting Notes
But let’s talk about the magic behind this bottle. Le Petit Clos hails from the renowned Apalta Valley in Chile, where the vines bask in sunshine and kiss the earth with rich terroir. The winery is known for its meticulous approach to viticulture, crafting wines with a sense of place—like a musician pouring their soul into a song. Lauded for sustainable practices, they are determined to let Mother Nature have her moment in the spotlight. After all, how can one make great wine without dialogue with the land?
The 2021 vintage showcases a delightful fusion of ripe dark fruits—think of it as “a black dress” party where blackberries mingle with black currant and black plum with the scent of hatch peppers grilled on a cedar plank filling the room. Its balanced character of fruit, acidity, and tannin might just be one of those occasions when you’re surprised when the bottle is empty before you realize how much you love it.
Food Pairing
Pairing the 2021 Le Petit Clos with expertly grilled ribeye cap steak, cooked to perfection using our secret recipe, takes the experience to another level. The wine’s rich fruit and smoky undertones perfectly complement the savory, juicy qualities of the steak, creating a symphony of flavors on your palate. Every sip enhances the grilled goodness, making it truly memorable.
Every time we try Le Petit Clos, we question our wisdom in collecting Bordeaux, considering its complex profile and value pricing. It can easily challenge a $100 Bordeaux bottle, if not more. Check out our tasting notes of the 2017 Le Petit Clos and compare it with the experience described above.
What are your thoughts on Bordeaux blends from Chile? How do you think they fare against its bigger brother from France? What is your pairing suggestion for Chillean blends?
