2021 Cheval des Andes

2021 Cheval des Andes is the Argentine expression of Château Cheval Blanc – a grand vin that marries Bordeaux elegance with the energy and purity of high‑altitude Mendoza. Crafted from 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot, it delivers a wonderfully refined, cool‑vintage profile with remarkable precision and balance. This is a wine conceived to age gracefully for decades, yet already shows an inviting harmony and finesse in its youth.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2021 Cheval des Andes is deep ruby with a vibrant, almost luminous rim that hints at its freshness and youth. The nose unfolds in layers: first fine sandalwood and discreet, well‑integrated oak, then vivid notes of fresh red and black cherries, ripe plum and a touch of cassis. As it opens, accents of menthol, dried violets, graphite and a subtle twist of black pepper add complexity and lift. On the palate, the 2021 is more slender and ethereal than warmer vintages, with a silky, flowing texture and striking purity of fruit. Juicy cherry and plum are framed by cool‑toned Cabernet notes – cassis, tobacco leaf and a hint of cedar – while Malbec brings supple mid‑palate flesh and violet perfume. Fine‑grained tannins are polished yet present, giving the wine definition without weight. A line of refreshing acidity runs through to a long, precise finish with echoes of spice, sandalwood and fresh herbs. This vintage has the structure and balance to age beautifully for 15–20 years or more, developing additional complexity, truffle, leather and tertiary nuances with time in the cellar.

Production
Cheval des Andes is sourced from high‑altitude vineyards in Mendoza, where intense sunlight, cool Andean nights and well‑drained alluvial soils create ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec of great finesse. Old‑vine Malbec parcels, combined with carefully selected Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, are harvested by hand in small lots to preserve fruit integrity and ensure precise selection in the vineyard and at the winery. Each variety and parcel is vinified separately, with gentle extraction to avoid excess weight and to emphasize fragrance and texture over sheer power. Fermentation takes place in temperature‑controlled vessels, followed by élevage in French oak (a significant proportion of it new) in a style directly inspired by Bordeaux grand cru practices. The final blend is assembled after careful tasting, with the focus firmly on balance, elegance and long‑term aging potential.

Food & Serving
The 2021 Cheval des Andes is a versatile fine‑dining wine that shines alongside refined meat dishes rather than heavy, rustic fare. Think roast lamb with herbs, dry‑aged beef tenderloin, venison with a red‑wine reduction, or duck breast with cherry or plum accents. It also pairs beautifully with truffle‑infused dishes, mushroom ragù, hard cheeses like Comté or aged Manchego, and sophisticated Argentine cuisine built around premium beef and subtle spice. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to showcase its aromatic detail and freshness. Young bottles will benefit from 1–2 hours in a decanter to allow the nose to fully open and the tannins to soften, while older vintages may need only a gentle decant to remove sediment.

Producer
Cheval des Andes is a unique joint venture that unites the savoir‑faire of Château Cheval Blanc in Saint‑Émilion with the high‑altitude terroirs of Terrazas de los Andes in Mendoza – itself founded by the prestigious Champagne house Moët & Chandon. Conceived as the “Grand Cru of the Andes,” the estate was created with a clear vision: to apply Cheval Blanc’s philosophy of elegance, balance and longevity to Argentine vineyards, particularly historic Malbec and top‑class Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the past two decades, Cheval des Andes has become one of Argentina’s most acclaimed fine wines, regularly receiving top international scores and helping redefine what Andean terroir can achieve at the very highest level. The 2021 vintage, lauded by critics such as Jeb Dunnuck with 98 points, is widely regarded as one of the most refined and precise releases in the estate’s history.

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