Casa Lapostolle’s Clos Apalta 2016 is the estate’s flagship red from the Apalta Valley in Chile’s Colchagua. It is a single-vineyard blend led by Carmenère, made in a style that aims to marry Chilean ripeness with a more classical, structured feel. The winery reports organic and certified biodynamic farming, with very low yields, and this vintage comes in at a stated 15% alcohol.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (Luis Gutiérrez) provides the most detailed technical picture: the 2016 is “a blend of 64% Carménère… 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Merlot,” with some key parcels “planted ungrafted in 1920.” Gutiérrez notes “hand-destemmed grapes” fermented in oak (including barriques) and “26 months of aging in brand new French barriques.” Despite the ambitious élevage, he writes, “The oak is surprisingly well integrated for such a young wine,” and he emphasizes “harmony, concentration and balance to make it age in bottle for a long time.” His 96-point review is strong, and he calls it “one of the finest Clos Apaltas of all time.”

James Suckling’s 99-point score is an excellent review and frames the wine’s appeal in terms of precision and polish. He calls it “really focused and refined,” pointing to “fantastic dried flowers and dark berries,” plus “dried-lavender and mint undertones.” On structure, he highlights “refined and polished tannins,” describing the palate as “compact and very linear,” and advises patience: “Better to drink after 2022.”

Wine Spectator (94 points) lands in a similar place stylistically, describing it as “refined,” with “mineral-infused raspberry, red currant and herbal shadings,” finishing with “slate and cast iron notes.” Their window—“Drink now through 2025”—suggests early approachability, though the higher-scoring notes point to longer-term upside.