2018 Vilafonte Series M
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Series M, a blend of 45% Merlot, 41% Malbec, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Cabernet Franc, has a very refined bouquet of black cherry, raspberry, cedar and sous-bois scents. The palate is medium-bodied, fleshy and ripe, with supple tannins, caressing black fruit laced with cracked black pepper and clove, and a touch of bitter tea leaves toward a finish with white pepper sprinkled over the aftertaste.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
An instant success, the 2018 Series M is focused on the nose, with plummy aromas followed by dusty black cherry, hints of earth and cassis and beautiful, elegant oak spices that sit atop dusty red and purple flowers. Medium to full bodied, the Series M is structured with buttressing tannins and lifting acidity that will allow this to age for more than a decade. Ending with a long, lingering finish, firm tannins are present in youth. Put this in the cellar and your patience will be rewarded; but if you must open now, then be prepared with food. Bravo!
About the producer
Based in Paarl, Vilafonté was created by two leading Californian consultants, Zelma Long and Dr Phil Freese, with South African native Mike Ratcliffe. Today its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends are some of the country’s most respected – and highest rated.