History Cuvelier Los Andes was founded in 1998 when the Cuvelier family, owners of Château Léoville-Poyferré in Bordeaux since 1903, joined Michel Rolland's Clos de los Siete project in Argentina's Uco Valley. With wine roots dating to 1804 in France, Bertrand and Jean-Guy Cuvelier sought to apply Bordeaux techniques in Mendoza. They acquired land in Vista Flores, Tunuyán, planting 55 hectares. The first wines were released in 2003. Today, led by Baptiste and Guillaume Cuvelier, the estate produces Malbec-based blends as Argentine counterparts to their French wines.
Viticulture Philosophy The 55-hectare estate in Valle de Uco, at 1,100 meters elevation, features alluvial stony and sandy soils in a semi-arid climate with low rainfall (250-300 mm/year) and diurnal shifts of 15°C. Certified organic and biodynamic, it emphasizes low yields, sustainability, and terroir expression. Practices include drip irrigation under sustainable water deficit, cover crops for biodiversity, composting, and manual management without chemicals. Varieties: Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, planted at 5,500 vines/ha.
Winemaking Techniques Grapes are hand-harvested into 12-kg crates and double-sorted manually. Cold maceration (4-6 days) precedes fermentation with indigenous yeasts; total maceration lasts 30-40 days. Malolactic fermentation occurs in tanks or barrels. Aging: 12-18 months in French oak (225-400 liters, medium toast, one-third new annually). Gravity-fed processes minimize intervention. Exclusive wines undergo micro-vinification in new barrels, blending French expertise with Argentine terroir for structured, elegant blends.
Critics and Journalist Praises The 2016 Malbec won Double Gold (97 points) at the 2020 Sommeliers Choice Awards, lauded for complex aromas, balanced tannins, and long finish. The Grand Vin is praised for woodsy plum notes, deep fruit, spice, and powerful balance. Journalists note age-worthy reds with Bordeaux-style elegance, consistent price/value excellence, and terroir-driven depth; e.g., "outstanding wines" requiring "dedication and patience."
