The 2017 Cheval des Andes Cheval des Andes is a remarkable wine that showcases the best of Argentine winemaking. With its vibrant violet edging and deep red color, it is visually enticing from the moment it is poured into the glass. This wine is a proprietary blend, carefully crafted to bring out the best characteristics of each varietal.
On the nose, the aromas are discrete yet captivating, with notes of blackberries, flowers, stone, and licorice. It is incredibly perfumed, drawing you in with its complexity and allure. The integration of fruit, tannins, and acidity is nothing short of fantastic, creating a harmonious and well-balanced wine.
On the palate, the 2017 Cheval des Andes delivers a full-bodied and solid experience. The flavors of currant, cassis, and tobacco are complemented by graphite, stony minerality, and spice. The texture is wonderfully textured, with silky tannins that caress the palate. The finish is long and exciting, leaving a lasting impression.
This wine is a blend of 62% Malbec and 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing the best of both varietals. It has been aged for 15 months in a combination of new and second-use barrels, including Bordeaux barrels and 400-liter barrels. The use of a 2,500-liter oak foudre for the first time adds to the wine's complexity and depth.
The 2017 Cheval des Andes is a Bordeaux lover's Mendoza, bringing together the elegance and power found in the best Bordeaux wines. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for further aging, showcasing the elasticity and promise of its tannins.
This wine has received high praise from wine critics, with scores of 95 from Decanter, 100 from James Suckling, 97 from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 96 from Jeb Dunnuck, 96 from Jane Anson, and 93 from Wine Spectator. It is truly a wine worth experiencing, representing the pinnacle of Argentine winemaking.