Cheval des Andes — a Franco-Andean alliance of elegant concentration and mineral precision

Born in 1999 from the meeting of Château Cheval Blanc (Bordeaux) and the high-altitude terroirs of Mendoza, Cheval des Andes embodies the perfect synthesis of Bordeaux elegance and Andean power. Located in Las Compuertas at over 1,000 meters above sea level, the estate practices precision viticulture on old, ungrafted Malbec vines, complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot.

Considered a true “Grand Cru of the Andes,” Cheval des Andes produces deep, vibrant wines of exceptional elegance — both modern and timeless.

Terroir & grape varieties

Planted in Luján de Cuyo near Mendoza, the vineyard lies on alluvial terraces with gravelly, sandy soils that ensure excellent drainage. The vines benefit from intense sunlight, large diurnal temperature swings, and high altitude — all contributing to slow ripening and natural freshness.

• Malbec — the backbone of the wine, delivering black fruit, density and velvety texture.
• Cabernet Sauvignon — structure, linearity and tannic length.
• Petit Verdot — aromatic complexity and tension.

The blend marries Argentina’s aromatic power with Bordeaux’s finesse, creating a unique signature in the South American wine landscape.

Viticulture & winemaking

• Sustainable viticulture respecting soil health and natural cycles,
• Manual harvesting in the cool morning hours,
• Rigorous parcel selection,
• Gravity-fed fermentations in stainless steel and concrete tanks,
• Long, gentle macerations to preserve fruit texture,
• Ageing for around 18 months in French oak barrels (mostly new).

This meticulous approach allows the Andean terroir to express itself with precision while retaining the refined structure of a great Bordeaux.

Style & ageing potential

Cheval des Andes wines are distinguished by their deep, dark color and complex aromas of ripe black fruit, violets, Andean herbs, graphite and sweet spice. On the palate, the balance between density, freshness and mineral tension is striking.

• Texture: velvety and vibrant.
• Tannins: exceptionally fine-grained.
• Finish: long, saline and persistent.
• Cellaring potential: 15 to 30 years, depending on the vintage.

This rare marriage of Malbec exuberance and Bordeaux structure makes Cheval des Andes one of South America’s greatest wines.

Signature wines

• Cheval des Andes — the estate’s grand vin, a perfect alliance of power and elegance, crafted each year with precision blending.
• Cheval des Andes Parcels / Single Vineyard — micro-cuvées from the oldest Malbec vines, vinified separately to showcase the richness of the Andean terroirs.