With 94 points, the new critic of the renowned American publication praised it as a global benchmark for Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly valuing its sophistication, energy, and vibrancy.

In his first article as South American wine reviewer for Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, Matthew Luczy published his report “Chile: Overall Thoughts and a Journey Through the Central Valley,” sharing his impressions after touring the country in November 2024. Among the wines that impressed him the most was Casa Real Reserva Especial 2021, which received 94 points and was highlighted as one of Chile’s top icons for its depth, vibrancy, and aging potential.

“The lavishly styled Casa Real has remained a benchmark to those following high-end Bordeaux wines worldwide for over three decades,” noted the American critic.

He added that during his visit to Chile, he had the privilege of attending a vertical tasting of Casa Real “led by the enthusiastic and intentional Sebastián Labbé,” the winemaker responsible for this label. “As with nearly all of Chile’s ‘icon’ wines, Casa Real has undergone something of a stylistic renaissance in recent vintages, best exemplified by the 2021 vintage. Adjustments to maceration, extraction and maturation have resulted in a wine that retains the creamy, toasty richness that made it famous but has instilled a sense of verve and vibrancy that should aid its development in the cellar,” he said.

According to Luczy, Casa Real Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 brings together the richness and sophistication that define Chile’s icon wines with a fresh, contemporary energy. “It opens with a classic bouquet of dark fruits, sweet tobacco, leather and toasty oak. The palate echoes this richness with a velvety, plush texture that retains a taut, structured core, finishing with focused tannins and fresh acidity. Between the effortless nature of the vintage and the recent stylistic refinements shown in this wine, this should develop beautifully past its 10th birthday,” he concluded.