Cheval des Andes is the result of the 1999 merger between the grand cru classé of Saint-Emilion, Cheval Blanc and its expertise and the Terraza de los Andes, the best high-altitude region in Argentina and its skills in growing superb Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The wine enjoys a Franco-Argentine synergy that results in perfect mastery of assemblage from the French side and the innovative, creative influence of the New World. The vineyards stretch over 50 hectares of exceptional land, with clay and sandy soil creating fantastic drainage that enables deep roots, thus resulting in the very best balance and a wonderful expression of the wine-making region. The climate is mild. Wines are produced from the Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties at the `Las Compuertas' estate located close to Mendoza at the foot of the Andes mountains. Malbec varieties come from vines that can be as old as 80 and have never been grafted. These are French varieties imported to Argentina in the mid-19th century before the phylloxera epidemic exploded in France and Europe.

This wine combines the finesse of Saint-Emilion savoir-faire and the power of Argentinian terroir. A blend of Bordeaux varieties such as Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, the grapes were picked by hand before fermenting in oak barrels for 18 months. After a few years of aging, this wine unveils a unique aromatic complexity and particularly elegant tannins balanced by the superb maturity of the grapes and a nice freshness.