The Vilafonté Series M 2023 is a poised and finely detailed Merlot-led blend that captures the elegance and precision for which Vilafonté has become internationally respected. Crafted in a vintage that balanced concentration with freshness, this release shows both immediate charm and the structure for long-term evolution.
Deep crimson-black in the glass, the wine opens with expressive aromas of cranberry, loganberry, and ripe plum, lifted by delicate notes of violet and savoury hoisin nuance. The palate is supple and seamless, gliding with silky precision across fine, satin-textured tannins. Layers of red and black fruit unfold gradually, balanced by freshness and understated power. There is an effortless composure to the wine, finishing long, refined, and quietly persistent.
The 2023 vintage in Paarl delivered exceptional fruit quality. Early growing conditions were highly favorable, and the final grapes were harvested just before heavy March rains arrived. Smaller berries from the Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc parcels brought concentration and intensity, while Cabernet Sauvignon contributed generosity and structure. The result is a vintage marked by purity, balance, and remarkable aging potential.
A sophisticated Bordeaux-style blend that pairs beautifully with beef fillet, duck, lamb, braised short ribs, and mature cheeses.
Deep crimson-black in the glass, the wine opens with expressive aromas of cranberry, loganberry, and ripe plum, lifted by delicate notes of violet and savoury hoisin nuance. The palate is supple and seamless, gliding with silky precision across fine, satin-textured tannins. Layers of red and black fruit unfold gradually, balanced by freshness and understated power. There is an effortless composure to the wine, finishing long, refined, and quietly persistent.
The 2023 vintage in Paarl delivered exceptional fruit quality. Early growing conditions were highly favorable, and the final grapes were harvested just before heavy March rains arrived. Smaller berries from the Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc parcels brought concentration and intensity, while Cabernet Sauvignon contributed generosity and structure. The result is a vintage marked by purity, balance, and remarkable aging potential.
A sophisticated Bordeaux-style blend that pairs beautifully with beef fillet, duck, lamb, braised short ribs, and mature cheeses.
The fruit was harvested between 2 February and 1 March 2023, with each vineyard parcel picked separately at optimal ripeness. Fermentation and extraction were carefully managed to preserve aromatic purity, texture, and balance.
Following fermentation, the individual components were matured in French oak barrels before blending, allowing each varietal to develop complexity and integration while maintaining freshness and precision. Extended maturation and careful élevage contribute to the wine’s polished structure and long aging trajectory.
Winemaker: Chris de Vries
Following fermentation, the individual components were matured in French oak barrels before blending, allowing each varietal to develop complexity and integration while maintaining freshness and precision. Extended maturation and careful élevage contribute to the wine’s polished structure and long aging trajectory.
Winemaker: Chris de Vries
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 wine specialists 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.
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.
