2021 Cheval des Andes (98 pts, JS)
The Autumn Offers from La Place de Bordeaux continue this afternoon with Château Cheval Blanc's Argentinian collaboration, Cheval des Andes. This new release scores 97 points from Jane Anson and is offered at £330 per six bottles in bond, down 18% on the 2020 release price.
Tasting previous vintages, we have been struck by how reminiscent Cheval des Andes' texture is of its French cousin. Cheval des Andes was established by Cheval Blanc's General Manager Pierre Lurton in 1999, inspired by the performance of Malbec in Mendoza, with its historic links to Bordeaux. Lurton saw the potential to re-connect with the roots of St.-Emilion, which in pre-phylloxera times saw up to 50% of Malbec in some right bank blends.
The 2021 Cheval des Andes is a blend of Malbec planted in 1929 in the La Compuertas vineyard, at an elevation of 1,070m, and Cabernet Sauvignon, from the Altamira vineyard in the Uco Valley, at 1,150m. These cool, steep vineyards provide the fruit for the final blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon and 48% Malbec, with the final 3% coming from Petit Verdot.
Pierre-Oliver Clouet (Technical Director for both Cheval Blanc and Cheval des Andes) describes the historic style of Malbec as being more akin to Pinot Noir, with its ability to express fine, perfumed aromas, contributing wonderful freshness and elegance in a cool year like 2021. This is a superb and well-priced new release to mark the 20th year of Cheval des Andes since the first vintage in 2001.
We have very limited stocks available, so please email us straight away if you would like to order.
Offered en primeur, landing in the UK in spring 2025.
| RED | 2021 | Cheval des Andes | 75cl | £330 per case of 6 | Cheval des Andes 2021 / / 75cl £330 per case of 6 |
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Tasting Notes"...It achieves a feat that only cool years can provide: smooth texture, agile palate and just the right amount of freshness for a nuanced build. As it breathes, it begins to reveal notes of fresh cherry and plum, with a hint of menthol, maraschino cherries and a touch of pepper. It opens further with aromas of sandalwood and oak that complete the framework. This is a somewhat leaner, more ethereal Cheval than other years, but it has a higher level of precision. It's a wine inspired by Bordeaux, executed in a Bordeaux style, with Mendoza terroir. A wine without edges, it's a polished red in the early stages of a long, balanced life. 97 points." (JH) Vinous.com Feb '24------"...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...12-13 months in 50% barrique, 30% demi-muid and 20% foudre. 2025-2033. 97 points." (ML) Wine Advocate, Aug '24------"A wonderful Cheval des Andes, luscious, layered, nuanced, a kick of nutmeg spice, blueberry and damson fruits, salted cracker mouthwatering finish, with deftly-handled freshness the signature of a cooler vintage. Gérald Gabillet winemaker, joint venture between Cheval Blanc and Terrazas de los Andes. 70% new oak for ageing. 97 points." Jane Anson, Jul '24------"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 liters), mostly from Slovenia. Try after 2027 but a joy to taste now. 98 points." (LG) Jamessuckling.com |
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