2014 Vilafonte Series M
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2014 Series M has a rich, generous bouquet of raspberry coulis and brown spice; a hint of menthol emerges with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin and quite firm in the mouth. White pepper emerges on a finish that needs to develop greater precision (something I discerned in previous tastings). It has improved slightly in recent months, though I still prefer the 2012.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2014 Series M comes from 17 different blocks each vinified separately. It is a blend of 39% Merlot, 36% Malbec and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is matured in French oak for 20 months, just 3% new oak mainly, as it turned out to be a larger vintage than expected according to winemaker Zelma Long. It has a rich bouquet, ripe and generous with kirsch, crushed strawberry and blueberry, later just a smear of creme de cassis. The palate is soft and rounded on the entry, a little smudged perhaps, yet still nicely balanced with a sprinkle of white pepper towards the finish. Perhaps it just needs a little more persistence on the aftertaste compared to vintages that I have tasted in the past, but still a fine Series M.
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.