Looking ahead to SF Wine School's 2026 South Africa Wine Cruise has me looking back at some of my favorite producers. Vilafonté is a US/South African joint venture that launched in 2001. I have been a fan from the beginning, especially of their ultra-premium Series C and Series M from Paarl. Seriously Old Dirt is a new label, is an amazing value, & the wine is drinking great right now. 

Style: dry, red | Grape: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc | Region: Western Cape, South Africa | Aging: French oak barrels for 18 months | Alcohol: 13.5% | Retail: $39 | Pairs with: burgers, stews, sharp cheddar cheese & more