Region and Vineyards
Cheval des Andes is crafted from two exceptional vineyard sites in Mendoza, Argentina: Las Compuertas in Luján de Cuyo and Paraje Altamira in the Uco Valley. These vineyards, located at the foothills of the Andes Mountains, benefit from high-altitude conditions that shape the wine’s structure and elegance.
The vineyards experience warm days and cool nights, allowing for slow ripening, preserving acidity, and enhancing aromatic complexity. The well-drained, alluvial soils, rich in sand, silt, and limestone, naturally limit vine vigor, leading to concentrated and expressive fruit. The 2019 vintage saw a mix of spring rains and summer heat waves, requiring careful water management. However, the season ended with dry weather and significant diurnal shifts, ensuring a harvest of exceptional quality.
Winemaking
Cheval des Andes follows a "one plot, one tank" approach, vinifying each parcel separately to preserve its unique character. The grapes were manually sorted and transported under temperature-controlled conditions to maintain freshness and purity.
The wine was aged in a mix of oak formats, including 225-liter barrels (40%), 400-liter barrels (40%), and 2,500-liter foudres (20%). The oak selection included 80% French and 20% Austrian, Slovenian, and German oak, with 50% new barrels. This aging process enhances the wine’s texture while allowing the fruit and terroir to remain at the forefront.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Brilliant ruby red with garnet reflections.
- Aroma: A vibrant bouquet of cherries, currants, and plums, intertwined with violets, lavender, and fresh herbs. Subtle notes of spice, vanilla, cedar, and licorice emerge with air, reflecting the refined oak integration.
- Palate: Smooth and refreshing, with silky tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, elegant finish. The youthful complexity suggests great aging potential.
Did You Know?
Cheval des Andes is a collaboration between Château Cheval Blanc and Terrazas de los Andes, merging Bordeaux tradition with Argentine high-altitude viticulture. Often referred to as the "Grand Cru of the Andes," it is one of Argentina’s most refined and structured wines.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Grilled beef tenderloin with rosemary and black pepper – The wine’s structure and acidity complement the richness of the meat.
- Duck breast with cherry reduction – The red fruit aromas and velvety tannins enhance the dish’s depth.
- Aged Comté or Gruyère – The balance of fruit and oak pairs well with the nutty complexity of these cheeses.
- Porcini mushroom risotto – The wine’s earthiness and acidity elevate the umami flavors of the dish.
