2013 Vilafonte Series M

The 2013 Series M was matured for 20 months in French oak barrels, 17% of them new, and then spent a year in bottle before release in 2016. I like the precision displayed by the intense black fruit, graphite and light soy aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin, featuring a touch of dark chocolate toward the finish. Perhaps one of the most approachable Series Ms that I have tasted. Enjoy over the next decade.

Due for release in March 2016, the 2013 Series M is a blend of 45% Malbec, 34% Merlot and 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, and matured for 20 months in 17% new oak - the sixth year in the row that the leading grape variety has alternated. I much prefer the nose on the 2013 than the 2012: much more control and finesse, great detail and fine mineralité developing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with the Malbec very expressive and lending to Argentinean flair. There is good structure here, touches of spice sprinkled over the finish and a little surliness that will be abraded by time in bottle. Give it 4-5 years.