2021 Cheval Blanc & Terrazas de Los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Mendoza

“The finest vintage of this wine I've tasted, the 2021 Cheval Des Andes is based on 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Malbec, and the balance Petit Verdot. It has a decidedly Bordeaux-like nose of ripe currants, leafy tobacco, cedarwood, and a kiss of flowers, with perfectly integrated background oak. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a layered, seamless mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. It has this remarkable sense of purity and class, and while it's incredible today (especially with a decant), I wouldn't be surprised to see it evolve gracefully for two decades. Drink 2024-2044.” [Sept 2024]

“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.” [May 2024]

“The 2021 release of this iconic Mendoza blend partners Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot from Las Compuertas and Paraje Altamira. It’s a lighter, more forward wine than the 2020 or 2019 releases, reminiscent of the 2016 perhaps, with ethereal rose petal and mint aromas, subtle bramble and summer pudding flavours, sculpted tannins and more concentration and ageing potential than you think at first. 2025-33.” [February 2024]

“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. Drink date: 2025-2033.” [August 2024] Matthew Luczy, The Wine Advocate