2020 Vilafonte Series C
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Tasting notes
Made with 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 10% Malbec and 8% Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Series C is firm, generously layered and tight, needing more time in the bottle to come around and find its stride. Full-bodied and complex, the palate reveals succulent flavors of blackberry jus and spiced plum compote with layers of brown baking spices and oak essence. Possessing a tight tannic grip, the mid-palate is rich and round yet still compact in its youth. The wine aged in French oak, 68% new, for 22 months before being bottled. It's a gorgeous wine that will no doubt age brilliantly. Just under 18,000 bottles produced.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Due for release next year, the 2020 Series C is much broodier and more backward than the Series M, the Cabernet Sauvignon imparting light cedar and tobacco scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, quite dense and exerting an insistent grip thanks to its backbone. Yet there is plenty of elegance and refinement on the lightly spiced finish and more persistence than the previous vintage. Great potential.
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.
Product details
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec/ Auxerrois / Cot
Red
Dry