2014 Chile

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.

Very deep, dark colour. Rich blackcurrant fruit on nose, both berry and leaf, no obvious oak on the bouquet, no confection, just a hint of toast. Very good on the palate, serious and savoury, ripe and reminiscent of unsweetened blackcurrant juice, wonderful mouth-feel with crisp acidity and rounded tannins, complexity is provided by a hint of spice in the shape of black pepper notes and a touch of cedar. Long and impressive on the finish. The best Chilean red I can remember tasting.
Chris Pollington – Private Account Manager

A lovely depth of colour with flicks of purple in appearance. The nose reveals comforting aromas of ripe blackberries, bramble, and cloves with a gentle herbal character of blackcurrant leaf. Concentrated flavours of red plum, blackberry and mulberry greet the palate which is generously structured with gradually building ripe tannins. Hints of sweet spice and mocha come through and a cleansing acidity wraps the wine up neatly providing balance and freshness towards the long finish. Profound, focussed and with fair depth, this 2014 is proof that Vina Sena are moving in the right direction. Allow a few years in the cellar.
Chris Lamb, Private Account Manager

 

This is a wine that simultaneously defines elegance and power. Complex aromas of blueberry, black currant, and black licorice. Full-body yet refined and beautiful with stunning length and complexity. It has a transparency that shows such greatness and beauty. Half the normal production. Has an energy and brightness. Chile's first perfect wine and well deserved. Better in 2020. 100 points.
James Suckling, Sept '16