2022 Boekenhoutskloof 'The Chocolate Block' Red Blend Franschhoek Valley

Winemaker Notes:  Intense blackberry, bramble, and lavender aromas with gentle nuances of potting soil and cured meat dominate a dark and brooding nose. The abundance of perfume and the earthy character of the nose follows through generously onto a powerful palate, with a lush compote of blueberries, ripe plums, black currants and cherries. Cacao-powdery tannins are abundant, adding texture and complexity to an almost savory mid-palate, seamlessly complementing the vivid dark fruits, alcohol and acidity. This is a robust, structured wine, yet it is delicate, poised and elegant at the same time. Black fruits, cumin spice, white pepper, licorice and hints of garrigue persist on a velvety finish.

Blend: Syrah 77% • Grenache 9% • Cinsault 8% • Cabernet Sauvignon 5% • Viognier 1%

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Tim Atkin - "A skilfully blended and packaged wine that manages to shift large volumes at an extremely profitable price, The Chocolate Block is a clever assemblage of mostly Syrah from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards with 9% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. Fleshy, perfumed and smooth, it has sweet goji berry and summer pudding fruit, velvety tannins, scented cinnamon oak and a fresh, lifted finish. 2024-29"


James Suckling - "Bay leaves, currants, and violets on the nose with a touch of iron. It’s medium- to full-bodied, balanced and supple. I like the herb and peppercorn freshness. Blend of 77% syrah, 9% grenache, cinsault, 5% cabernet sauvignon and 1% viognier. Drink now."


Vinous - "The 2022 The Chocolate Block comprises Syrah (77%, which is slightly higher than usual), Grenache (9%), Cinsault (8%), Cabernet Sauvignon (5%) and Viognier (1%), with around 70% of the production estate-grown. It is a whole berry fermented, matured in 95% used French oak using the “OXO” system to rotate the barrels. It has an attractive, well-defined bouquet with brambly red fruit, mocha, and crushed violet scents (no aromas of dark chocolate). The medium-bodied palate has powdery tannins, very well-balanced and fresh, with a surprisingly tensile, engaging graphite-tinged finish. An exemplar of how to create a hugely popular brand whilst upholding quality."