At a glance

Producer

Lapostolle

Region

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Grape variety

Carménère

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$40

Tasting profile

Dense dark fruit (blackberry, plum) with herbal notes of green peppercorn, layered with hints of tobacco and spice.

Evolution: Will develop more complex tertiary notes of leather, earth, and cedar over 5-10 years.

At peak: Balanced richness with integrated tannins and elegant minerality, showcasing Carménère's signature savory depth.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, supporting freshness

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years for quality vintages

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2046

Optimal window

2025 to 2049

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Youthful tannins with developing complexity; not yet at peak

The wine’s firm tannin structure and balanced acidity provide strong aging potential. Vintage 2021 in Colchagua was warm but balanced, encouraging ripe fruit and good phenolic maturity, enhancing longevity.

Food pairing

Pair with grilled meats, lamb, game, hearty stews, and aged cheeses to complement its robust character.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aroma development

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Lapostolle employs water-saving irrigation, solar energy use in operations, and eco-friendly packaging materials including lightweight bottles and recycled corks.

Lapostolle is recognized for its commitment to sustainability in Chile, employing modern practices to reduce environmental impact while maintaining quality. Their sustainable certification and energy/water conservation efforts rank them at an above-average sustainability score.