Description

IN BRIEF
Vilafonté Seriously Old Dirt 2022 is a sophisticated wine that exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship of the Vilafonté estate in South Africa. Known for its commitment to quality and sustainable practices, this wine captures the essence of the region's unique soil composition. In the glass, it displays a deep, inviting hue, with an aromatic bouquet of ripe dark fruits like blackberries and plums, complemented by notes of spices, chocolate, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it reveals bold structure with soft tannins, resulting in a velvety mouthfeel. Hints of roasted coffee and vanilla add depth. Rated 93 points by The Wine Advocate, 89 points by Vinous, and 94 points by James Suckling, this wine is perfect for hearty dishes or enjoying neat.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Vilafonté Seriously Old Dirt 2022 is a sophisticated and highly regarded wine that reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional terroir of the Vilafonté estate in South Africa. Known for its commitment to producing high-quality wines through sustainable practices, Vilafonté aims to capture the essence of the region's unique soil composition, hence the name "Seriously Old Dirt."

In the glass, this wine displays a deep, inviting hue that hints at the richness and complexity within. The nose is captivating, presenting an aromatic bouquet of ripe dark fruits, including blackberries and plums, complemented by intriguing notes of spices, chocolate, and a touch of earthy undertones. The complexity of the aromas reflects the careful selection of grapes and the careful aging process.

On the palate, Vilafonté Seriously Old Dirt 2022 reveals a bold and well-structured wine. The layers of dark fruit flavours meld seamlessly with soft tannins, creating a velvety mouthfeel that is both luxurious and approachable. Hints of roasted coffee, vanilla, and a subtle minerality emerge, adding depth and character to the tasting experience.

The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of fruit and spice that showcases the wine’s elegance and finesse. This well-balanced expression captures the spirit of the region, highlighting the depth and complexity derived from the old soils that characterise the Vilafonté vineyards.

Ideal for pairing with hearty dishes such as grilled meats, rich stews, or decadent cheeses, Vilafonté Seriously Old Dirt 2022 is a wine that promises to elevate any dining experience. This exceptional offering is perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions, making it a wonderful addition to any wine lover’s collection. With its remarkable quality and intriguing storyline, this wine embodies the essence of South African winemaking at its finest.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 93 points
Reviewed by: Monica Larner
Drink Date: 2024 - 2032
The Vilafonté 2022 Seriously Old Dirt pays homage to the wonders of South African geology based on, ahem, very old soils. These range from shale, decomposed granite, sandstone and other formations traced back one billion years and having seen little to no movement in the form of glaciation, volcanic events or earthquakes. So-called Vilafontes soils are some of the world's oldest documented soil types.

This is a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller parts Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from older vines for structure and complexity. These latter varieties are the "salt and pepper," says Winemaker Arlene Mains. They add darker fruit, pencil shaving and petrichor over a medium-plus body with a bold and austere personality. Hand-me-down barrels used in the Series C and Series M wines are directed to this wine and represent mostly second- and third-use oak; however, some of the barrels in the program date back to 2004. The wine matures in oak for 18 months. Reddish stone soils add a salty or ferrous quality to the wine. Tobacco leaf and cigar box emerge as the wine spends more time in the glass.

VINOUS 89 points
The 2022 Seriously Old Dirt aged for 18 months, 60% in stainless steel vats and 40% in older French barriques. It has a forward, open nose with dark cherries, raspberries and a strong potpourri scent. The palate is medium-bodied with a touch of bell pepper on the entry—a slightly more herbaceous wine this year, which gives it an Old-World slant. Finishing with good length, this is definitely a wine that will show best with food. It is due to be released in September in magnum format. - Neal Martin

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ABOUT VILAFONTE
Vilafonté is a prestigious winery located in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa, renowned for producing high-quality wines that embody the unique terroir of the area. Established in 1996, Vilafonté is the result of a collaboration between respected winemakers from the United States and South Africa, bringing together a wealth of expertise and innovation in the wine industry.

The winery is particularly known for its red blends, which typically feature prominent varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec. These wines are crafted to reflect the distinct characteristics of the terroir, showcasing the rich, diverse soils and the ideal climate of the Stellenbosch region. Vilafonté’s philosophy centres on minimal intervention in the winemaking process, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through. This approach is complemented by meticulous vineyard management, including sustainable farming practices that promote the health of the vines and the environment.

Vilafonté produces several signature blends, notably "Series C," "Series M," and "Series L," each embodying a unique expression of the chosen grape varietals and vineyard sites. The wines are typically characterized by their elegance, balance, and depth, appealing to both casual wine drinkers and collectors alike. The focus on quality has earned Vilafonté numerous accolades from wine critics and publications, further solidifying its reputation in the competitive South African wine market.

The winery's commitment to crafting exceptional wines, coupled with its picturesque settings and a passion for excellence, makes Vilafonté a standout producer in the region. With an emphasis on heritage, innovation, and sustainability, Vilafonté continues to contribute significantly to the growing recognition of South African wines on the global stage.