About
Vilafonté is the first American and South African joint wine-making venture. This groundbreaking red wine project is a partnership between Michael Ratcliffe in South Africa, and Zelma Long and Phillip Freese, in the United States. It 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.
Seriously Old Dirt
Paarl
Harvest & Vintage Notes
The label is a cross-section of seriously old soils in Paarl. Always a blend and usually Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, with help from Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc. 18 months in French oak barrique. Ripe black cherry, mineral, supple.
Scores
2020 James Suckling 92 - November 2022
2020 Tim Atkin MW 91 - March 2022
2019 Decanter 94, Wine of the Year - November 2021
Series M
Paarl
Harvest & Vintage Notes
M for a Merlot based Bordeaux blend. The famed Zelma Long and husband Phil Freese bring the American part to this first American and South African joint venture. Mike Ratcliffe of Warwick family history completes the picture. Aged for almost 2 years in French barrique. Dark red and blue fruits, savory, finesse.
Scores
2014 Wine Advocate 90 - April 2017
2014 Vinous 91 - August 2018
2013 James Suckling 95 - 2017
Series C
Paarl
Harvest & Vintage Notes
The Cabernet-based counterpart to Series M. The smallest production of the three wines, averaging about 45 barrels per vintage. Both barrique and older French oak are used for nearly 24 months of aging. Cassis, violets, refined.
Scores
2015 Wine Spectator 90 - June 2018
2015 Vinous 93 - August 2018
2015 James Suckling 93 - June 2018