2012 Clos Apalta

A library release from the estate at its 10 year window. Sandalwood, grilled oak, cloves, black cherry, cassis, swirling dark fruits that remain closed even at 10 years old, and I suggest a long carafe (for me it tasted even better the next day, a clear sign of a wine that has a long life ahead of it). Once it softens, sweet berry fruits appear, with touches of oyster shell salinity. The label says 'Vinothèque, this bottle was released from the cellar of Clos Apalta in 2022'. 100% new oak, unfiltered and unfined.

The 2012 Clos Apalta started off a little closed, but with air, the spicy aromas seemed to dominate (cloves, black pepper); there are also lots of smoky notes over a core of ripe black fruit with a volatile hint. It feels young and greatly marked by its two years in new French oak barrels. The palate is still young and tannic, and the finish is a little dry. There's not a lot of fruit in there and it somehow feels like it lacks a bit in the mid palate. For fans of the style, but even though, you should wait to pull the cork. 61,000 bottles produced.

The 2012 Clos Apalta started off a little closed, but with air, the spicy aromas seemed to dominate (cloves, black pepper); there are also lots of smoky notes over a core of ripe black fruit with a volatile hint. It feels young and greatly marked by its two years in new French oak barrels. The palate is still young and tannic, and the finish is a little dry. There's not a lot of fruit in there and it somehow feels like it lacks a bit in the mid palate. For fans of the style, but even though, you should wait to pull the cork. 61,000 bottles produced. Dec 2015, www.robertparker.com