100 James Suckling - Jamessuckling.com

"Extremely aromatic with red currants, blackcurrants, spices, iodine, paprika and subtle hints of white pepper. Fresh flowers, fresh sage, lavender and some pine needles and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with perfectly integrated tannins that go on for minutes with refined and harmonious fruit that integrates beautifully into the wine, giving it a weightless structure that shows class and verve. Endless balance and length. It’s so balanced that you could drink it now but it will age for decades. A blend of 75% carmenere, 18% cabernet sauvignon and 7% merlot. Best after 2028."

98 Joaquín Hidalgo - Vinous Media

"The 2021 Clos Apalta comprises 75% Carménère, with the remainder filled out by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, sourced from the eponymous Apalta Vineyard. It was aged for 24 months in oak barrels, two-thirds of which were new. This dark purple wine reveals nuanced aromas of graphite, herbs, dried plums and blackberry marmalade, complemented by mint, boldo, and garrigue-like notes over a green bell pepper layer. Plush and ample on the palate, it is lifted by a mild refreshing quality that adds a rare nimbleness to its flow. This long-lasting red is a serious wine, less influenced by Michel Rolland's style than in other years, as the fresh vintage imparted a lighter, less ripe and more expressive character. Clos Apalta is one of those rare Chilean wines that reliably showcases the characteristics of each vintage while maintaining a consistent house style. That steadiness is a boon for consumers, as it allows them to appreciate the impact of different vintages, which is a significant part of the allure of high-quality wines."

98 J. D'Angelo - International Wine Report

The 2021 Clos Apalta is a fantastic showing in this vintage. The blend of 75% Carmenère, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Merlot delivers a bold, expressive profile that reflects both its varietal makeup and its origin. The nose is perfumed with a mix of blackberries, dark cherries, and floral notes, laced with layers of dried herbs, spices, and subtle bell pepper. On the palate, it is plush and concentrated, with ripe dark fruit at the core and a savory, spicy edge that adds complexity. Supple tannins and balanced acidity provide structure without overpowering the wine’s vibrancy, leading to a long, earthy finish. It’s a distinctive, character-driven wine from Clos Apalta that showcases a premium offering from the region.