2021 Vilafonte, Series M, Paarl

CELLAR INFORMATION A masterpiece. The Series M 2021 is enticingly dense with complex and exotic aromas and rich with flavour, owing to the Merlot and Malbec components that define this blend. It presents an opaque purple-black hue, with little variation from its centre to the glass’s edge. As it unwinds in the glass, savoury charcuterie and sweet baking spices give way to fragrant, zesty bergamot and jasmine tea. Seductively well-articulated fruit notes of ripe mulberry, blackberry and red currants are complemented by hints of star anise and dried mandarin rind. A subtle underlying ferrous tone of intrigue. The palate is beautifully round and effortlessly long. A texture reminiscent of crushed velvet envelops the senses, revealing a pleasurable structure, abundant yet precise power, and a supple, mouth-coating quality. Gorgeous umami flavours of Parma ham harmonize seamlessly with a saline minerality, culminating in an intense, fruit-driven finish. While the 2021 Series M is already complete in its youth, this blend will reward those who exercise patience, as it continues to evolve and develop complexity. Enjoy now or cellar for two decades or more. VINEYARD INFORMATION Truly stellar. Ample rains followed an unusually cold and wet spring which continued into early summer, leading to larger vine canopies and requiring additional inputs to manage vigorous growth. Flowering was largely even, with good fruit-set, boding well for an abundant crop. Early growing season temperatures were cool to moderate, warming gradually toward ripening. Noteworthy was the lack of heatwaves normally experienced in February and March. This meant that water resources were less strained and bunches saw little to no sunburn. We were excited by flavours while tasting for harvest decision-making. Berries were supple-skinned, bursting with flavour, vibrant freshness and a bold tannin structure. Harvest began on February 11th ,only 3 days later than usual, and we were blessed with mild weather for the remainder of the season. Wines of the vintage are intensely coloured and show a sophisticated poise and gravitas.