Colchagua Valley, Chile. Lapostolle Apalta Vineyard.
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot
We will remember the 2008 as a vintage with a very cold and dry winter. The spring was drier and flowering conditions were good but delayed approximately seven to ten days. The summer was hotter and drier with higher temperatures than normal, so we experienced a very sudden veraison. These conditions lead to grapes which were deeply colored and richly flavoured. During the harvest, conditions were good. The phenolic maturity was perfect it was not necessary to wait too long for harvest and it was completed before the end of April and, most importantly, before the first rain. The wines therefore have good balance and an especially deep rich color, with elegant tannins.
Our Cabernet Sauvignon comes from an old block of Cabernet: 80 year old vines, planted with high density in special soil and geographic conditions. The result: old, healthy and balanced vines that ripen very slowly during the season. We hand harvested all the grapes and maintain a strict quality control in the winery. Fermentation is employed with wild yeast, and a careful extraction follows with skin contact The wine is racked straight into French oak barrels. The oak is used very judiciously, always a blend of new and used French barrels in order to respect the fruit but maintain elegance and complexity.
Color: Deep red ruby color. Nose: Intense nose of plum, cassis, red and blackberries with smoky and spicy notes. Palate: Attractive and concentrated structure, with a very good attack. It is full bodied and lingers on the palate.Service and Food Pairing: Ready to drink now or cellar for several years. Decant and serve at 16-18°C (60 to 65°F). Ideal companion for meats and elaborate dishes. Sourced from our own vineyards, Cuvée Alexandre wines express our dedication to quality and the expression of the Terroir of Chile.
