Nicolas Audebert

Nicolas Audebert

Nicolas Audebert is the chief winemaker of Cheval des Andes, the pioneering joint venture between Chateau Cheval Blanc and Terrazas de los Andes. He backs up his world-class training in the French art of assemblage with a hands-on appreciation for the ideal elevation vineyards of Mendoza, Argentina.

Cheval des Andes comes from 38 hectares of vines made up of ancient plots: 16ha of old Argentinian Malbec, 20 of Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2 of Petit Verdot. It is a subtle blend of varietals in keeping with the style of fine claret. The high altitude at which the Argentinian vineyard thrives is a determining factor in the constitution of the aromas, power and concentration in the grapes. Here, the Cabernet Sauvignon draws its richness in tannins at 980 metres above sea-level. At 1,067 metres, the Malbec develops its wonderfully intense, red berry fruit aromas.

The discovery of Cheval des Andes defies tasting terms. The Bordeaux-style blending of this “Grand Cru” from the other side of the world expresses, in turn, finesse, exoticism, power and freshness, elegance and authenticity. Its prestigious tutors have guaranteed its powers of seduction. It is a wine that follows no fashion.