2019 Vilafonte Series M
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Tasting notes
Coming from the smallest vintage per hectare since Vilafonté started, the 2019 Series M offers incredible concentration and focus on the nose, which is marked with oak, ripe plum and dark cherry skin aromas before delicate dusty roses and lavender notes waft from the glass. The wine compresses on the palate to reveal a firm tannic structure with brilliant, energetic acidity that is slightly nervous now but will benefit from one more year in the bottle and age like a champion. Just give it time, and your patience will be rewarded. Even though they had low yields, the quality is evident and paramount. It’s a stunner!
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2019 Series M, one of the smallest crops because of the uneven flowering, is matured in French oak for 22 months (around 22% new) has a very well defined bouquet, a mixture of red and black fruit, dried mint, potpourri and pressed rose petals. The oak is neatly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, rounded and caressing in texture, a touch of cedar and mint emerging towards the finish. There is a sense of grace about this Series M, and it will surely tempt many to drink it too early.
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.