Rapel

A remarkably full-bodied and fruit expressive Cabernet Sauvignon, with masses of ripe blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, ably supported by spicy French oak notes. The fine, ripe tannins make this a very page-worthy wine.
Martin Hudson MW, Wine Buyer

Lapostolle Wines was founded in 1994 by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle, heiress to the Grand Marnier empire, to create world class wines using the French experience and the magnificent terroirs of Chile. The company now owns 370 hectares of vines, producing around 200000 cases annually, with the jewel in the crown being Clos Apalta, a single vineyard cuvee from a sub region of the Colchagua valley.

First launched in 1997, the wine is a blend of Carmenere (Chile’s signature red grape), Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Made with a firm nod to Bordeaux, but from the more Mediterranean climate provided by this part of Chile, the 2014 vintage is the finest to date.

A “perfect summer” in 2015 has resulted in great volume of fruit on the nose, hints of new oak too, a much bigger wine than previous vintages. The Cabernet dominates on the palate with notes of ripe blackcurrant, cedar and spice, rich and full-bodied. Merlot and Carmenere are in evidence too, rounding-out and filling-out the mouthfeel on the palate and adding some depth and complexity. The rich fruit is balanced by crisp acidity and full, firm tannins. A big, rich Clos Apalta, clearly built for the long-term, this will need a few years in the cellar, but has a wonderful, long life ahead of it. Drink 2022-2040+.
Chris Pollington, Private Account Manager

The 2012 VIK somehow manages to be even more impressive than the exceptional 2011. A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Carménère, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot and 2% Syrah, this wine has an intense, lifted nose dominated by blackcurrants. The palate however is beautifully fresh and succulent with layer upon layer of smooth, svelte fruit coming through. The tannins are in abundance, coating the mouth, but are pin-point fine resulting in a sense of suave sophistication. This is what ultra-premium, modern Chile is all about: exceptional concentration yet elegant with a juicy, refreshing character that brings harmony and balance to the endless finish. Drink 2018-2035+.
Catriona Felstead MW - Wine Buyer