The 2021 Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta is a proprietary red blend hailing from Chile's Colchagua Valley. This vintage is composed of 75% Carménère, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Merlot, with the grapes sourced from the renowned Apalta Vineyard. The wine underwent a 24-month aging process in oak barrels, two-thirds of which were new.
Esteemed wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine a perfect score of 100, praising its "extremely aromatic" profile featuring red currants, blackcurrants, and spices, alongside subtler notes of white pepper and sandalwood. He highlighted the "perfectly integrated tannins" and the wine's "weightless structure," asserting its potential for decades-long aging, while noting that it is so balanced it could be enjoyed now.
Vinous' Joaquín Hidalgo rated the wine at 98 points, noting its dark purple hue and aromatic complexity, which includes graphite, herbs, and dried plums. Hidalgo emphasizes the wine's "refreshing quality" and "nimbleness," observing that this vintage leans less on the stylistic influence of Michel Rolland, resulting in a "lighter, less ripe and more expressive character."
Jane Anson, awarding the wine a score of 97, described it as having a "kick of spice" with "carefully constructed dense blackcurrant and black cherry fruits." Anson noted the wine's deep color and floral notes, and remarked on its "exceptionally good quality," crediting the expert craftsmanship of technical director Andrea Léon and the vineyard's organic farming practices.
In summary, the 2021 Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta is a standout Chilean red blend that impresses with its aromatic complexity, balanced structure, and potential for aging. It remains true to its house style while showcasing the unique characteristics of the vintage, making it a compelling choice for wine enthusiasts.