Matured for 22 months entirely in new French oak, the 2007 Series C is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 6% Malbec. Is carries the new oak very competently, allowing those seductive dark berry and mocha notes to develop unimpeded in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with plush tannins, even softer and more velvety than the Series M with a seamless finish of red-berried fruits, mocha, leather and spice. With a gentle but persistent grip, this will benefit from a couple years of bottle age. Drink 2013-2020. Vilafonte is a joint venture between renowned California winemaker Zelma Long, viticulturalist Phil Freese and Warwick Estate proprietor Mike Ratcliffe. They only produce two wines, and that are both based on Bordeaux varieties from their 18-hectares of vines in Paarl (though the winery itself is in Stellenbosch.) Considering their price point they both represent excellent value and err towards a lush, sensual, caressing style without becoming cloying or saccharine. Couldn’t afford that Right Bank Saint Emilion or cult Napa Cabernet? Check out Vilafonte.Importer: Broadbent Selections Inc., San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 292-8466

Rich and lush, but very driven, with gorgeous fig bread, linzer torte, bittersweet ganache and mulled currant fruit flavors, all backed by hints of black tea, graphite and spice. The long finish lets everything hang together nicely. Impressive. The best vintage yet for this quietly and steadily improving project. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2013. 850 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Paarl Select to Add