Vilafonté is the name of a South African winery created by California wine superstars, winemaker Zelma Long, and viticulturist Dr. Phil Freese, along with Managing Director of Warwick Wine Estate, Michael Ratcliff, of Stellenbosch, South Africa. The name comes from the Vilafontes soil where the vineyard was planted. It was half a million years or older, as determined from the presence of old arrowheads found near the soil surface. Freese noted that since the surface was half a million years old, the soil below indeed must be “seriously old dirt.” Cabernet Sauvignon is 86% 0f the blend with portions of Malbec (which Zelma is very fond of) Merlot and Cabernet Franc completing it. Winemaker, Chris de Vries fermented the fruit in stainless steel tanks and the wine spent eighteen months in older French barriques. The result is a seamless mélange of spicy black cherry, blackberry and cassis flavors. It is full in the mouth, yet smooth and balanced, finishing with sturdy, but supple tannins, perfect for a juicy steak.
Vilafonte, Western Cape (South Africa) 2019
By Rebecca Murphy