Cheval des Andes: A Journey Worth Every Mile
Cheval des Andes: A Journey Worth Every Mile
Waking up at 2 AM, driving four hours to the Bariloche airport, and catching a 7 AM flight to Mendoza was no easy feat. By the time our 10:30 AM wine tasting rolled around, it wasn’t exactly top of mind. After 26 hours of travel to reach Argentina and two action-packed days of trout fishing on the Limay River, all I craved was rest. Before the trip, visiting Cheval des Andes was a dream, but that morning, sitting at the airport, it felt like a distant priority. Nevertheless, we powered through, arriving about 20 minutes late—but Noelia greeted us with a warm smile, as if our tardiness didn’t matter at all.
From the moment we entered the property, I was awestruck. The pristine vineyards, elegant structures, lively wildlife, and breathtaking backdrop of the snow-capped Andes Mountains created an almost surreal experience. As a fan of Bordeaux and Château Cheval Blanc, I came in with some knowledge of Cheval des Andes but had never tasted it before. That made this visit even more special.
The property was undergoing major construction, as Cheval des Andes doesn’t yet have its own winery on-site—a detail I hadn’t known beforehand. Machinery and architects were scattered throughout, working on what promises to be a stunning facility. Completion is expected within the year, though that timeline might be ambitious. Despite the construction, the estate was immaculate. Every inch of the property—hedges, bird boxes, olive trees, gardens, and, of course, the vines—was impeccably maintained. Even the grass felt like walking on a golf course fairway. For a region that receives so little rain, the greenery was astonishing. I later learned about Argentina’s strict water regulations and how Cheval des Andes maximizes their water allocation, making the lush environment even more impressive.
Adapting to a Changing World
Cheval des Andes is committed to staying ahead of the challenges posed by climate change. They are constantly experimenting with new varietals and growing techniques to ensure the future viability of their vines. While currently organic, the team prioritizes quality over certification and would pivot in an instant if a shift were necessary to maintain their wine’s high standards.
The property reflects this thoughtful approach. If a vine underperforms or becomes unhealthy, it’s replaced with greenery—trees, flowers, or birdhouses—that rejuvenates the land and provides future shade for the vineyard. Rows of vines are marked with roses, which act as an early-warning system for disease or pests before they affect the grapes. It’s clear that Cheval des Andes is more than just a vineyard; it’s a living ecosystem. The team’s commitment to biodiversity and sustainability is evident in every detail, from the strategically placed bird boxes that encourage natural pest control to the integration of olive trees that diversify the land’s use.
The Tasting Experience
After touring the vines, we headed to an improvised tasting room—an extra office space, as the main tasting room was occupied by architects. This temporary setup worked perfectly. We had the pleasure of tasting the 2020 and 2021 vintages of Cheval des Andes, both of which showcased the incredible craftsmanship behind the wine.
The 2021 vintage was highly aromatic, with an inviting nose and a soft, approachable palate. It offered a lingering finish of cedar, plum, spices, and black fruits. In contrast, the 2020 vintage was bolder, with robust black fruit flavors, firmer tannins, and greater complexity. Though it’s clear the 2020 will shine brighter with a few more years of aging, the 2021 stood out for its immediate expressiveness. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to let the wines fully open, but the potential in each glass was undeniable. Noelia mentioned that her favorite vintage is 2019, which we didn’t get to taste—but perhaps that’s a reason to return.
Beyond the wines themselves, Noelia’s passion and deep knowledge elevated the experience. Her ability to convey the essence of each vintage and the philosophy behind Cheval des Andes added layers of appreciation to every sip. Each wine felt like a window into the unique growing conditions and craftsmanship of its vintage year.
Cheval des Andes: The Harmony of Old and New
Cheval des Andes is the result of a groundbreaking partnership between Château Cheval Blanc, a Bordeaux legend, and Terrazas de los Andes, a leading Argentinian winery. Established in 1999, the collaboration sought to merge Old World expertise with New World terroir. This marked Château Cheval Blanc’s first venture outside France and introduced a unique concept: a Grand Cru of the Andes.
Situated in Las Compuertas in the Luján de Cuyo district of Mendoza, the vineyards are planted at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters (3,280 feet). The high-altitude climate, with warm days and cool nights, provides the perfect conditions for cultivating grapes with intense flavors and balanced acidity. The flagship wine is typically a blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, each vintage showcasing the unique character of its growing season.
Cheval des Andes is more than just a wine—it’s a testament to the art of winemaking, combining innovation with tradition. With its breathtaking setting, thoughtful practices, and exceptional wines, it truly lives up to its reputation as one of the world’s finest wines. From the meticulous care of its vines to the pioneering spirit behind its creation, Cheval des Andes represents a perfect harmony of heritage and forward-thinking—a legacy in the making.
Written by: Carson McEvoy of Bordeaux Bard