Boekenhoutskloof

The Chocolate Block

Name: The Chocolate Block
Brand: Boekenhoutskloof
Price: 289 ZAR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 93 (3 reviews)

Shiraz/Syrah Blend•Swartland • South Africa

1 bottle750 ml•R110 delivery

R289

Case of 6750 ml each•Free delivery

R1,734

“Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo.” – Investec Trophy Winę Show 2026

Ships from

PNGin 5-7 days and shipped from the following warehouse(s):

CPT: 60+ DBN: 24

Taste profile

Type

Red Blend

Tannin

xxx

Sweetness

xxx

Acidity

xxx

Body

xxx

Oak influence

xxx

On the palate

The Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2023 exhibits a deep, ruby-red color with violet highlights. The nose is complex and inviting, with aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and blackcurrants, intertwined with hints of dark chocolate, spices, and a subtle smoky undertone. Additional layers of licorice, cloves, and a touch of vanilla add to its aromatic complexity. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and smooth, with well-integrated tannins and a rich texture. Flavors of dark fruit, cocoa, and a hint of espresso dominate, balanced by a lively acidity and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and lingering, with notes of pepper and a subtle earthiness.

Blackcurrant

Dark Chocolate

Ripe Blackberries

Dark Cherries

This versatile wine pairs well with a wide range of dishes. It complements grilled meats such as beef steaks, lamb chops, and barbecued ribs, where its rich, full-bodied nature and tannic structure enhance the flavors. It is also an excellent match for spicy dishes like Moroccan lamb tagine or beef chili, with the wine’s dark fruit and spice notes complementing the bold flavors. For vegetarian options, consider pairing it with a hearty lentil stew, mushroom risotto, or grilled vegetables with balsamic glaze. Its chocolatey undertones make it an intriguing pairing with dark chocolate desserts as well.

Cultivar

72% Shiraz/Syrah, 11% Grenache, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cinsault, 1% Viognier

Region

Swartland

Appellation

Swartland

Alcohol

14.5%

Cellaring Potential

7 to 10 years

Residual Sugar

3 g/L

Award stickers are applied at the producer's discretion and may not be present on all bottles.

Boekenhoutskloof was established in 1776. Located in the furthest corner of the beautiful Franschhoek valley the farm’s name means “ravine of the Boekenhout” (pronounced Book-n-Howed). Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech tree greatly prized for furniture making. In 1993 the farm and homestead was bought and restored and a new vineyard planting programme was established that now includes Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Grenache Semillon and Viognier.

The Chocolate Block 2023 is crafted from grapes sourced from selected vineyards in the Swartland region, known for its diverse terroir and dry, warm climate. The vineyards benefit from the region's unique soils, including granite, schist, and sandstone, which contribute to the wine's complexity and character. The vineyards are managed using sustainable farming practices, focusing on low yields to ensure concentrated fruit and high quality. The Swartland’s terroir and climate conditions are ideal for producing bold, structured wines.

The Chocolate Block 2023 is aged for 12 to 16 months in French oak barrels, with around 20% new oak to impart subtle oak flavors and enhance complexity without overpowering the fruit profile. The use of both new and older oak helps integrate the wine’s tannins and add layers of flavor, including hints of vanilla, spice, and toasted nuts. This careful maturation process ensures a balanced, refined wine with aging potential.

After hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo a meticulous sorting process to ensure only the finest fruit is used. The grapes are destemmed and fermented in a combination of stainless steel tanks and open-top concrete fermenters. Regular punch-downs and pump-overs are performed to optimize extraction of color, flavor, and tannin. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrels, contributing to the wine's creamy texture and complexity.

all Boekenhoutskloof wines

Boekenhoutskloof

The Chocolate Block

Shiraz/Syrah Blend•Swartland • South Africa

Taste profile

On the palate

Pair it with

Tech sheet

Boekenhoutskloof

In the vineyard

Ageing

In the cellar

Other Boekenhoutskloof Wines

Syrah

Boekenhoutskloof

Semillon

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Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon

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Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon

Boekenhoutskloof

About

Boekenhoutskloof

The Chocolate Block

Shiraz/Syrah Blend•Swartland • South Africa

Taste profile

On the palate

Pair it with

Tech sheet

Boekenhoutskloof

In the vineyard

Ageing

In the cellar

Other Boekenhoutskloof Wines

Syrah

Boekenhoutskloof

Semillon

Boekenhoutskloof

Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon

Boekenhoutskloof

Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon

Boekenhoutskloof

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