Cheval des Andes 2022 (750ML)

97 Points, Matthew Luczy, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Soon to be released through La Place de Bordeaux, the 2022 Cheval des Andes opens with an exotic, spice-driven bouquet, supplemented by lifted herbal notes and a vibrantly red-fruited and perfumed backdrop. The palate is similarly energetic, melding an elegantly rich, polished texture with a slender, tensile energy. It concludes with a long, persistent and high-toned finish that gradually unfurls a sturdy structure of supremely refined tannins. This is an excellent counterpoint to the comparatively darker and more open-knit 2021, showcasing a brighter, more tenacious profile while sacrificing none of the grace, nuance and textural attention to detail that has come to define Cheval des Andes. It's a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot." 08/25

98 Points, Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux: "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." 07/25

99 Points, Joaquín Hidalgo, Vinous: "The 2022 Cheval des Andes is a significant upgrade to Mendoza’s historic regional blends, combining grapes from Las Compuertas (Luján de Cuyo) and Paraje Altamira (Uco Valley). The 2022 vintage allowed for a slower ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon, which take prominence in this blend alongside 30% 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." 04/25

98 Points, Jacobo Garcia-Andrade Llamas, JamesSuckling.com: "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." 03/25