Seriously Old Dirt 2019 – Vilafonté.
Bordeaux style blends. South Africa has built a reputation when it comes to this wine style, with a successful track record that goes back 4 decades now. Stellenbosch is one of the SA regions that became famous for it, but others followed, like Paarl. In this review a Bordeaux blend named Seriously Old Dirt, by one of the upcoming producers Vilafonté.
About the Winery
Vilafonté has a clear goal, become one of South Africa’s most luxurious wine brands. Their key export market is the USA, but their wines are starting to find their way to Europe. The estate covers 40 hectares, with 12 hectares under vine, planted with Cabernet Sauvignon & Franc, Malbec and Merlot (age ~20 years).
Creating Bordeaux blends is what they focus on, and one of the differentiators is the soil type in their vineyards named Vilafonté (hence the name of the winery).
About the Wine
Seriously Old Dirt (first vintage 2012) is the estate’s 2nd wine, following the flagship “Series C” and its sister “Series M”. The 2019 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (86%), Malbec (6%), Merlot (5%) and Cabernet Franc (3%). It matured in old French barriques for 18 months.
In the glass a deep garnet colour, combined with a nose of fresh dark fruit and spices. The primary notes are sealed by more richer notes of vanilla, tobacco and hazelnut. With the fruity notes continuing on the palette you experience a fresh wine that will take some time to balance out, especially at this age. But once that happens the wine becomes subtler and leaner, providing balance and elegance. The acidity is excellent, and the aftertaste is on-par and lingering.
Approachable now, but has more potential. A great ambassador for this winery, at a strong price. It tells you that you should keep an eye on Vilafonté. Great quality wines.
Imported in The Netherlands by Vinites and available through associated retailers and restaurants.
Price: ~ €28,95
Taste date: June 2022
Score: 91/100 DWA Score
Website: Vilafonté