This wine was tasted in the fall of 2005, when the wine was roughly 3 years old.

This is one of the better South American cabs that I have had.  Casa Lapostolle makes several cabernets.  At the top of the list is the Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta, in the middle is the Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre, and the entry level cab, simply called Casa Lapostolle.  The 2002 Cuvee Alexandre retails for $19, but usually sells for less.  It has dark ruby coloring and a somewhat spicy, mineral like bouquet.  Pleasant, but certainly different than a California or French cab.  The tannins were a little rough around the edges, but softening compared to a tasting 6 months ago.  The finsih lasts, but was a tad tannic.  For those who like tannic cabs, drink this one young.  For those who like their tannins a little softer, wait until 5-6 years after the vintage before consumption.  For whatever it's worth, the version currently on the shelves is the 2003, which is even more tannic, and needs more bottle time, for sure.

3 stars

Addendum:  12/3/06:  See Review for the 2001 vintage of this wine tasted in December 2006.  The extra bottle age has, I think, made a significant difference in the quality of the wine.