Released this morning, the 2022 vintage from Cheval Blanc's Argentinian collaboration, Cheval des Andes, receives a best-ever score of 99 points from Vinous, making it once again one of the best-value fine wines from anywhere in the world, at just £336 per six bottles in bond, barely changed from last year's 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 reconnect with the roots of St.-Emilion, which in pre-phylloxera times saw up to 50% of Malbec in some right bank blends.
The 2022 Cheval des Andes is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Malbec, from steep vineyard sites and high altitudes, providing cool conditions. The Malbec was planted in 1929 in the La Compuertas vineyard, at an elevation of 1,070m, whilst the Cabernet Sauvignon is from the Altamira vineyard in the Uco Valley, at 1,150m.
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 2026.
| RED | 2022 | Cheval des Andes | 75cl | £336 per case of 6 | Cheval des Andes 2022 / / 75cl £336 per case of 6 |
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Tasting Notes"Aromas of dark currants, spices, cloves and a touch of elderberries. The palate is elegant and medium- to full-bodied with polished, precise tannins, firm fruit, a juicy backbone and a solid and flavorful finish. 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% malbec from Lujan and Altamira. Drink from 2027. 98 points." (JGAL) Jamessuckling.com, Mar '25------"Fragrant, exceptional quality, a standout in the lineup. Concentrated black cherry and damson fruits, nuanced pulses of orange peel and pomegranate, gunsmoke and peony flowers. Gérald Gabillet winemaker, at this joint venture between Cheval Blanc and Terrazas de los Andes. Fermented and aged in a mix of 225l barrels, 400l barrels and 2,500l casks, 50% new oak - almost entirely French, with some Austrian, Slovenian and German. 98 points." Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux, Jul '25------"The 2022 Cheval des Andes is a significant upgrade to Mendoza's historic regional blends, combining grapes from Las Compuertas (Lujan de Cuyo) and Paraje Altamira (Uco Valley). The 2022 vintage allowed for a slower ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon, which takes prominence in this blend alongside Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. Aging was carried out in 40% 225-liter Bordeaux barrels, 35% 400-liter barrels, and 25% 2,500-liter foudres, with 50% new oak. A bouquet of bright fruit—raspberry, blueberry, and delicate cassis—and complementary bay leaf and mint tones give way to a touch of ash and mild bell pepper. Boasting serious concentration, fine tannins, and a slight creaminess, the 2022 has a structure that is firm but never tight, maintaining weight without losing balance. The finish is long, energetic, and full of flavor. This is an exceptionally beautiful wine. 2026-2042. 99 points." (JH) Vinous, Apr '25 |
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