Name: Vilafonte - Seriously Old Dirt
SKU: 2882525
Availability: InStock

Vilafonte – Seriously Old Dirt

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South Africa

Western Cape

Wine

Red

The Facts

UPCs 2021 (750ml) - 6 009639 891489

Origins South Africa > Western Cape > Coastal Region

Appellation Paarl

Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon

Cepage 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 2% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc

Winemaking The vineyard, with a combination of 8 to 23-year-old vines, is situated at various elevations and orientations, featuring flat, south-east, north, and north-west aspects. The soil types vary, including Klapmuts, Estcourt, Glenrosa, Cartref, Swartland, and Malmesbury shale. The climate is Mediterranean with a cool maritime influence. The harvest took place on February 7, 2023, and was characterized by a delayed start due to cold and wet spring conditions. The growing season had cool to moderate temperatures, with no heatwaves in February and March. The grapes underwent a six-day cold soak, followed by a 1012 day fermentation at 25 degrees Celsius, with malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks.

Aging 22 months in French oak barriques and seasoned tanks.

Alcohol by Volume 13.5%

Annual Production 15000 cases

Markets California

Trade and Media

Sales Sheet

Shelf Talker

The Character

Overall Sexy & Sleek

Aromas Fresh plum, black raspberry, mulberry, and ripe strawberry, accentuated by hints of nutmeg.

Mouthfeel Silky-smooth

Tasting Notes Seriously Old Dirt 2021 is a vibrant Cabernet Sauvignon blend with a rich red color. It greets you with a burst of fresh plum, black raspberry, mulberry, and ripe strawberry, subtly intertwined with notes of nutmeg and sage. The palate is smooth and silky, starting at the front and expanding to a rich finish. A touch of fresh acidity adds liveliness to this medium-bodied wine. Soft, integrated tannins make it enjoyable now, and its balanced structure ensures it can be cellared gracefully.

Selling Point Crafted from ancient soils. Unique!

Pairings Pairs well with grilled meats, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses, or a charcuterie board. Versatile!

Awards 94pts Greg Sherwood, 92pts Wine & Spirits, 91pts Tim Atkin, 90pts Decanter

Sustainability Vegan, Sustainable In Practice

The Story

Seriously Old Dirt by Vilafonté is a tribute to the ancient soils that define the estate’s identity. These "vilafontes" soils, aged 750,000 to 1.5 million years, provide a unique foundation for crafting this approachable Bordeaux-style blend. The wine reflects the balance of youthful vibrancy and layered complexity, embodying the artistry of Vilafonté’s winemaking team.

Born from a meticulous selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, Seriously Old Dirt showcases rich, ripe fruit flavors with hints of spice and elegant tannins. It’s a celebration of terroir, heritage, and the pursuit of crafting wines that offer both sophistication and everyday enjoyment.

About Vilafonte

Producer Story

Vilafonté, in South Africa’s Paarl-Simonsberg region, was founded in 1996 by Michael Ratcliffe, Zelma Long, and Phil Freese. Named after its ancient “vilafontes” soils (750,000–1.5 million years old), the winery produces Bordeaux blends that are globally acclaimed. Winemakers Chris des Vries and Arlene Mains lead the creation of wines celebrated for elegance, complexity, and longevity.

Producer Story

Vilafonté, in South Africa’s Paarl-Simonsberg region, was founded in 1996 by Michael Ratcliffe, Zelma Long, and Phil Freese. Named after its ancient “vilafontes” soils (750,000–1.5 million years old), the winery produces Bordeaux blends that are globally acclaimed. Winemakers Chris des Vries and Arlene Mains lead the creation of wines celebrated for elegance, complexity, and longevity.