Lapostolle 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Cuvee Alexandre, Apalta Vyd., Colchagua Valley

The Apalta Vineyard is the gem of the Lapostolle estate in Chile's Colchagua Valley. It's where they source the fruit for one of Chile's greatest wines, Clos Apalta. The Cuvee Alexandre Cabernet is also sourced from this extraordinary vineyard. Surrounded on three sides by hills and a river on the fourth side it has its own unique micro-climate. Planted back in 1920 it also has deeply rooted grapevines averaging 60 years old. The Cabernet grapes for this wine comes from an old block of Cabernet planted in 1920 with high density that provides low yields of less than 2 tons per acre and grapes with deep complex flavors. It's also certified organic and biodynamic. The grapes are 100% hand harvested with strict fruit selection. All fermentation is done with wild yeast in 20% new French oak barrels, where the wine stays, aging up to 10 months. There is no stabilization, no clarification and a very light filtration prior to bottling. Wine Enthusiast Magazine named this an "Editors' Choice" and scored it 93 points saying "This lusty Cabernet is earthy, jammy and warm on the nose. In the mouth, this is broad and massive, with an undercurrent of firm tannins that provide structure. Deep dark flavors of blackberry, plum and fig finish with strength on a fruit-packed finish. Drink through 2025." and  James Suckling scored this 95 points saying "Wonderful aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, and hot stones. Full-bodied, chewy and intense with great depth and intensity. Muscular tannins, from biodynamically grown grapes, best ever? Old vine magic. Needs three to four years to soften."