2021 Cheval des Andes
Cheval des Andes was inspired by Cheval Blanc’s Pierre Lurton’s inspiration to trace Malbec’s roots from Bordeaux to Argentina. Brought to Argentina in the mid-19th century, and subsequently wiped out by phylloxera in Bordeaux, the vines in Argentina are ungrafted, offering a purer and more noble expression of Malbec. Since Cheval Blanc took over complete technical management of the vineyards and winemaking in 2015, Cheval des Andes bears the unmistakable hallmark of Saint-Émilion and is stylistically closer to Cheval Blanc than ever before.
Their 2021 is a triumph, and in our minds, easily their best vintage to date. At £330 per 6, they have taken the unprecedented decision to reduce their price by 18% year on year. Made by Cheval Blanc, in a Cheval Blanc style, but in Argentina, Cheval des Andes 2021 is well worth securing for your future drinking pleasure. Trust us on this one.
2021 Cheval des Andes, Mendoza, Argentina
Complex aromas of blueberries, pie crust, fresh flowers and currant bush with hints of baking spices like nutmeg. Medium- to full-bodied with extremely fine tannins that are integrated and gorgeous. Graceful and refined, with super length. Interestingly, 20% of the wine was aged in large oak casks (2,500 litres), mostly from Slovenia. Try after 2027 but a joy to taste now.
99 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com
The 2021 Cheval des Andes is seductive and savory on the nose, leading with pure, earth-tinged aromas of pipe tobacco, turned soil, dried herbs and rich yet composed dark fruits. Exotic, dark spice notes and a pleasantly integrated framing of new oak accents appear with further aeration. The palate is deliciously supple and impressively layered, with a harmonious, long and ever-expanding finish that highlights extreme delicacy. The tannins are persistent yet composed, gently yet persistently lengthening the finish and melding nicely with the vibrant acidity underneath—a beautiful combination of savory charm, serious depth and focused intensity. It’s a blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Malbec and 3% Petite Verdot that spent an average of 12-13 months in 50% barrique, 30% demi-muid and 20% foudre.
97 Points, The Wine Advocate