Cheval des Andes 2017 (100 points JS)

Cheval des Andes, a beautiful red wine created through a unique collaboration between Cheval Blanc from Bordeaux and Terrazas from Argentina. The Cheval des Andes vineyards are located in the wine heart of Argentina, Mendoza. Here, the grape vines are cultivated with great care. From the beautiful vines, you'll see only gems of grapes. This magnificent red wine is a unique Argentinean blend of typical French grape varieties: Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. A Bordeaux wine with an Argentinean twist. The vines are all at least 80 years old and therefore produce few, but still perfect, grapes. The high altitude of the vineyards allows the grapes to mature in complete tranquility. The grapes receive ample warmth from the sun, but also the delightful coolness of the night and the wind that blows through the Andes. Meltwater, which slowly drips down from the perpetually snow-capped peaks, creates a natural irrigation system. This ensures the grapes receive sufficient, very pure water. The vineyards' terroir is perfect, and that's clearly evident in this red wine.

The best wine from Argentina

The collaboration between Cheval Blanc from Saint-Émilion and Terrazas from Mendoza has an additional, unexpected French touch. Terrazas is founded and owned by the prestigious Champagne house Moët & Chandon. You'll understand by now that with these two partners, it's clear that only the best is good enough for the Cheval des Andes grapes. The harvest for this Argentinian red wine is carried out entirely by hand, very early in the morning. This way, the grapes are still dormant and cool, minimizing damage to the skins. The grapes are then transported in small crates to the press, where they are pressed very gently. This process releases only the finest juice. After vinification, this red wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. After bottling, it returns to the Cheval des Andes cellars for 24 months of bottle aging. Then, the moment finally arrives: the winemaker gives his approval, declaring the wine perfect and ready!

The scent and taste of the Cheval des Andes

After all this effort, the result is certainly impressive! The color is intensely dark red with a black core. The aroma offers a classic bouquet of subtle black fruit, dried plums, light cedarwood, and vanilla. The taste is reminiscent of a good Saint-Émilion: silky smooth with subtle power. The soft flavor nuances of black fruit combined with a hint of stewed plums and a touch of vanilla create a truly global experience we won't soon forget! It's no wonder this wine received 94 Parker Points!