Lapostolle – Clos Apalta 2018 – Colchagua Valley Chile

Lapostolle Clos Apalta 2018 is a Carmenère-led Bordeaux blend from D.O. Apalta in Chile’s Colchagua Valley, combining concentrated red and black fruit with cedar, spice and polished structure.

🍷 At a Glance

• Grapes: 64% Carmenère, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot
• Region/Appellation: D.O. Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile
• Vintage: 2018
• Aging: 25 months in French oak; 87% new, 13% second use
• Alcohol: 15.0%
• Production/Special Notes: 7,729 cases of 9L; unfined and unfiltered
• Style: Full-bodied, dry Bordeaux-style red blend

👃 Tasting Notes & Experience

Red and black fruit lead the profile, joined by cedar and spicy aromatic detail. The palate is round and fresh despite its concentration, with elegant tannins, polished structure and an exceptionally long finish.

❤️ Why We Love It

• The exact-vintage blend is led by Carmenère with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
• Twenty-five months in French oak builds structure while preserving freshness and finesse
• Concentration is matched by elegant tannins and a long, composed finish

🍽️ Food Pairing Ideas

• Grilled ribeye
• Roast lamb
• Braised short ribs
• Aged firm cheeses

👤 Who This Wine Is For

✓ Collectors of benchmark Chilean red blends
✓ Carmenère drinkers seeking depth with polished structure
✓ Fans of full-bodied wines that balance concentration with freshness
✕ Not ideal if you prefer light, low-alcohol reds

Scores

98 points — James Suckling
96 points — Wine Advocate