Post by Niels Aarts

One of the things I enjoy most about wine journalism is returning to a story several years later. When I first interviewed Mike Ratcliffe of Vilafonté, for our podcast Grape Masters, our conversation centred on the winery's origins, its ancient soils and the ambition behind building one of South Africa's benchmark producers. This time, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Arlene Mains, Head Winemaker of Seriously Old Dirt. While Mike spoke about the vision behind Vilafonté, Arlene offered a fascinating perspective on how that vision is being carried forward through meticulous vineyard management, long-term grower partnerships and an unwavering focus on Cabernet Sauvignon. One comment stayed with me throughout our conversation: "It's a partnership. If the growers succeed, we succeed." It perfectly captures what impressed me most about Seriously Old Dirt. What began as Vilafonté's second wine has evolved into a project with its own identity—one built on collaboration, patience and a shared commitment to quality. In my latest article for Dutch Wine Apprentice (link below and in the comments), I explore that evolution, the philosophy behind the wine, and review the elegant 2022 vintage, which earned 92/100 DWA Score. https://lnkd.in/evB69XQC A sincere thank you to Arlene, Mike, the entire Vilafonté team, and our partner and Dutch importer Vinites (Henrico van Lammeren) for their openness, hospitality and support. If you're interested in South African fine wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, or how great wines are shaped long before they reach the cellar, I think you'll enjoy this story. #vilafonte #seriouslyolddirt #cabernetsauvignon #southafricanwine #finewine #winewriting #winejournalism