2013 Vilafonte Series M
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Tasting notes
45% Malbec, 34% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon. More herbal and leafy than the 2015, and that gives it a lovely flash of freshness on the palate. Luxurious, svelte and lengthy. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2013 Series M was matured for 20 months in French oak barrels, 17% of them new, and then spent a year in bottle before release in 2016. I like the precision displayed by the intense black fruit, graphite and light soy aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin, featuring a touch of dark chocolate toward the finish. Perhaps one of the most approachable Series Ms that I have tasted. Enjoy over the next decade.
Due for release in March 2016, the 2013 Series M is a blend of 45% Malbec, 34% Merlot and 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, and matured for 20 months in 17% new oak - the sixth year in the row that the leading grape variety has alternated. I much prefer the nose on the 2013 than the 2012: much more control and finesse, great detail and fine mineralité developing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with the Malbec very expressive and lending to Argentinean flair. There is good structure here, touches of spice sprinkled over the finish and a little surliness that will be abraded by time in bottle. Give it 4-5 years.
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.