Vilafonté “Seriously Old Dirt” 2022

Winery Background and History

Vilafonté was founded in 1996 in the Western Cape region of South Africa by Mike Ratcliffe along with collaborators Dr. Zelma Long and Dr. Phil Freese. The estate is known for its emphasis on “ancient soils” — the “vilafontes” earth underfoot is among the oldest soils on the planet, and the winery’s identity is tightly bound to expressing terroir via Bordeaux-style blends. Over time, Vilafonté has gained acclaim for producing structured, elegant wines that combine New World fruit intensity with Old World composure.

Producer and Wine Maker

The 2022 “Seriously Old Dirt” is overseen by head winemaker Arlene Mains, who assumed the role in 2021. Mains brings international winemaking experience (including vintages in Napa and Bordeaux) and a philosophy of crafting wines that express site and soil over overt extraction. Her approach emphasizes discipline in vineyard selection, low yields, and precision in blending.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from multiple vineyard sites across the Western Cape, including Vilafonté’s own estate in Paarl as well as supplemental blocks in Bonnievale, Robertson, and coastal sites. The vineyards lie under a Mediterranean climate moderated by maritime influences, with winter rains and dry summers. The “ancient soils” — particularly Bokkeveld shale, Glenrosa, red sandy loam, and quartz-rich Askham subsoils — stress the vines and contribute to concentrated expression. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Each vineyard block is harvested and fermented separately, then blended. The wine is matured for about 18 months, primarily in French oak (barriques) to add structure without overwhelming the fruit. The oak influence is balanced such that fruit remains central, with spice, vanilla, and toasty notes layered over. 

Tasting notes

Nose: Deep ruby hue gives aromas of blackcurrant, black plum, dark cherry, raspberry, layered with baking spices (cinnamon, clove) and hints of floral lift, tobacco and hazelnut. 

Palate: Silky entry, concentrated black fruit (blackberry, cassis), dark chocolate, savory spice, balanced acidity and medium weight. 

Finish: Long, with persistent spice, a savory impression, and smooth, satiny tannins. 

From consumer tasting: “cedary, spiced, blueberry and blackberry fruit with some floral lift” noted in CellarTracker reviews. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, prime rib, venison, beef short ribs, or duck breast. Also works with aged hard cheeses, dark chocolate desserts, or dishes with black pepper and spice.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at ~16-18 °C (slightly below room temperature). Use a Bordeaux-style red wine glass or standard red wine glass to allow aromas to open. Decanting 30 minutes before serving helps the wine show in a younger vintage.

Storage and Aging Potential

Bottled wine is stable; suitable for aging 5 to 10 years, during which tertiary notes will deepen. Store in dark, cool (12-18 °C), stable environment. Once opened, consume within a few days to preserve freshness.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

Cabernet Sauvignon ~ 94 %

Malbec ~ 3 %

Merlot ~ 2 %

Cabernet Franc ~ 1 % 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Not explicitly published in the sources I found

Scores

• James Suckling: 93