Wine Composition
A sumptuous blend Malbec 37% Merlot 36% Cabernet Sauvignon 26% and Cabernet Franc 1%
Winemakers Comments
Seriously Old Dirt 2017 displays a brilliant, deep garnet-red color. Ultimately fruit-forward, this potent blend reveals ample, vibrant red cherry & ripe blueberry on the nose. Its fruit purity is underpinned by welcoming woodsy notes of allspice, toasty coconut and sandalwood, deftly mingling with nuanced sweet tobacco. The palate is broad, notably fresh and generous. Juicy red fruits and a sumptuous mouthfeel integrate a core of fine, chewy tannins. A long, satisfying finish, supported by a nougatine-chocolate character, adds a luxurious dimension to this fine wine. Delightful now and will mature gracefully.
Awards
Tim Atkin | 90 points
Technical
6-7 days cold soak, partial natural fermentation with an extended fermentation period. Aged in French oak barrels for 21 months.
Winemaker
Name: Martin Smith & Zelma Long
Winery
Vilafonté is the first American and South African joint wine-making venture. This groundbreaking red wine project is a partnership between a respected group of winespecialists from South Africa (Michael Ratcliffe) and the United States (Zelma Long and Phillip Freese). Vilafonté is the first winery in South Africa to focus on making wine aimed specifically at the US market. The name Vilafonté is derived from the primary soil type of the 100-acre estate, whose character forms the foundation of the wines. The Vilafonté project aims to create the first luxury wine brand from South Africa.