Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta 2005

James Suckling: This was the Wine of the Year for the Wine Spectator in 2008 and I voted for it! Full body, fresh and focused with gorgeous fruit and and spices. Such transparency. So very young now. A blend of 42% carmenere, 28% cabernet sauvignon, 26% merlot and 4% petit verdot. 97/100 (2018)

Wine Enthusiast: Clos Apalta continues to push the envelope for Chilean icon wines. It's always been a blend of four or five Bordeaux grapes, and the 2005 is every bit as structured, tight and ripe as any predecessor. There is an intense blanket of new oak that tastes of mint, cinnamon, sawdust and black licorice. When that subsides (maybe in another 12 months), expect racy and complex berry flavors, pinpoint tannins and preserving acidity. 94/100 (2008)

Jancis Robinson: 42% Carmenère, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot. Aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak. Bramble fruit and baking spices with charming black-cherry fruit and lots of grip on the palate. Much sprightlier (understandably) than the 1997, and still in its first flush. Lovely fruit quality – no hint of greenness – powerful and savoury, with great sophistication. Delicious tar and granite complexity. Very good indeed. 18/20