The Chocolate Block 2023

The Chocolate Block is the flagship red of Boekenhoutskloof, an estate in the Franschhoek Valley that since 1993 has rebuilt its vineyards around high quality French varieties and organic practice. The fruit comes from Wine of Origin Swartland in the Coastal Region, a warm dry zone of decomposed granite and schist where low yielding bush vines concentrate flavour and ripen Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault and Cabernet Sauvignon fully, with a small fraction of Viognier co fermented for aromatic lift and rounder texture. The blend spends thirteen months in barrel, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds spice and a fine grained structure. The result is deep and powerful. The nose carries fresh red berries, juicy blackberry and a vibrant lift of orange peel over black pepper and cocoa, while the palate is full bodied and ripe with plum, savoury spice and a vanilla and oak frame from the barrel. The finish is long and warming, in keeping with its 14.5 percent alcohol. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees in a large glass, decanting an hour ahead for younger vintages. It suits roast lamb, grilled beef and game.