2018 Boekenhoutskloof, The Chocolate Block, Franschhoek, South Africa

69% Syrah, 13% Grenache, 9% Cinsault, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Viognier. 90% of fruit from Porseleinberg and Goldmine vineyards. 2,236 barrels selected from 3,000 produced. 670,000 bottles.

Mid-deep purple. Ripe, slightly jammy berry fruits with a touch of dark chocolate and a floral note. Velvety, with a rich mouthfeel and a blend of sweet fruit and savoury spice. Good length. 

Drink 2019 - 2023

A blend of predominantly Syrah, with Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet and a splash of Viognier, sourced from Swartland, Piekenierskloof, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, this wine is no shrinking violet and enjoys a loyal fanbase who expect it to deliver the big, smooth, rich - even chocolatey! - flavours it is known for. 

This latest vintage is more of the same, with violet-tinged black fruits alongside coffee, chocolate and some woody touches, balanced out by bright acidity.

Drink 2019 - 2024

A blend of 69% Syrah, 13% Grenache, 9% Cinsault, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. 

The 2018 Chocolate Block begins with a delightfully expressive nose that bursts with red and black berry essence, chocolate ganache and seductive oak tones. Aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, dark cherry skin, dusty plum, black pepper, sweet tobacco and baked clay sing in unison in the glass. 

Medium to full-bodied, the wine is expressive as it unpacks layers across the mid-palate, showing a beautifully balanced structure and chassis that holds its bold frame. Dusty flavours of bitter dark chocolate, black tea and dusty black raspberry sway with a mineral tension and oak essence on the long, lingering finish. 

This is absolutely delicious and is another successful Chocolate Block for the books. Well done!

Drink 2021 - 2034

The 2018 The Chocolate Block is sourced from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg farms, the Cabernet originating from Voor-Paaderberg, and matured for 16 months in used oak barrels. It offers generous black plum and black currant aromas, pressed rose petals and a touch of menthol. 

The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and much more structured than the vintages of old as I have pointed out in previous reviews), displaying fennel, bay leaf and white pepper toward the finish. This feels long in the mouth. 

A classy Chocolate Block that treads a fine line between commercial and intellectual appeal.

Drink 2022 - 2035