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Vilafonté Series M 2020 Reticent & Commanding The Series M 2020 possesses a regal, dignified character. Beautifully nuanced, showing an attractive tension and energy. It displays a great density of red to black colour and magenta-tinged rim. Seductive aromas of cranberry and ripe cherry fluently segue to lush notes of black raspberry, blueberry and subtle dried thyme, owing to the Merlot and Malbec components of this blend. Lifted rose petal, blonde tobacco, cacao and warm orange rind add layers of complexity. The palate is deftly poised, with consistent weight throughout and framed by ripe, supple tannins and elegant acidity. Smooth on entry, then broadening to display fine satin-textured tannins that envelop the palate and culminating in a soft, round finish of plum, raspberry and milk chocolate. While alluring in its youth, the 2020 Series M promises a decade or more of cellaring to realise its full potential. The Blend Twenty-two months in twelve percent new French oak barrique, with the balance in older French oak. Series M 2020 consists of Merlot (forty-three), Malbec (thirty-seven percent), Cabernet Sauvignon (fourteen percent) and Cabernet Franc (six percent). Sixty-five barrels were produced. 96/100 Greg Sherwood The 2020 Series M from Vilafonte reverts back to a right bank Merlot dominated blend with a 43% Merlot, 37% Malbec, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc assemblage and stands out as being particularly old world and classical in style showing pronounced notes of dusty limestone, sweet violets, lilac, dried herbs, sweet cedar, piquant black currants, black cherry and an intense black chocolate cocoa spice. But it’s the palate structure that departs from many more recent vintage releases of Series M revealing a notable St Emilion / Pomerol style elegance, richly illustrated by a fine-grained mineral restraint and a classically pithy black berry complexity that delivers a compelling tension combined with subtle hedonistic nuances. This Series M seems so very grown up, multi-dimensional and mineral-laden, finishing with mouth coating powdery tannins and a soft, plush, understated mocha-laden persistence. Another wonderful expression with incredible energy, intricate earthy accents and a seamless mineral patina. Drink from 2024 to 2040+.

Deep ruby-cherry with violet highlights. The nose is aromatic and expressive — red and dark fruits, dried herbs, vanilla, sweet oak and a hint of tobacco. The palate is medium-full bodied with smooth, integrated tannins, refreshing acidity and a long, spice-tinged finish. A classic Rioja Alavesa Reserva with excellent balance and real depth of character.

Deep ruby with inky violet hues. Intense aromas of blackcurrant, plum and dark cherry compote, underpinned by vanilla, toasted oak, dark chocolate and a hint of tobacco. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate with firm, ripe tannins, fresh acidity and a long, structured finish with lingering spice. A serious, ageworthy expression of old-vine Tinta de Toro.

Deep ruby with violet hues. The nose offers blueberry, cassis and red cherry alongside notes of violets, dark chocolate and warm spice. Medium-full bodied with ripe, smooth tannins, bright acidity and a long spice-tinged finish. A Lafite-Catena collaboration at its most approachable.