Vilafonté is a high-profile collaboration between the well-known American winemaking team of Zelma Long and Phil Freese and South Africa's Mike Ratcliffe. On the Paarl side of the Simonsberg mountain, it was founded in 1996 and their first release was the stellar 2003 vintage. Meticulous viticulture and up-to-date, modern cellar practices ensured that Vilafonté was at the cutting-edge of fine wine and still is today. From the long, slowly ripening 2007 vintage, the Series M is a Merlot-inspired blend that impresses when young and with age.

‘A dense red, showing layers of fig, plum sauce, hoisin sauce and melted licorice snap flavors, allied to a strong graphite spine. Offers lots of grip, with extra notes of maduro tobacco and anise weaving in on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc ... 950 cases made.’  Wine Spectator, 92/100