2024 The Chocolate Block, Boekenhoutskloof
Swartland, Western Cape, South Africa
Dark Alchemy
This is one of South Africa’s modern wine icons, a Syrah-led Swartland blend that combines cult status with genuine vineyard pedigree. It opens with blueberry, blackberry and black cherry compote, then gathers redcurrant, violet, cedar and tobacco, with liquorice, clove, nutmeg and a dark earthy note underneath. Generous but never overblown, it has the polish of a famous bottle and the wild, savoury detail of the Swartland.
The palate is medium-bodied, round and beautifully composed, with juicy plum and dark berries held by vibrant acidity and velvety tannins. French oak brings subtle grip and polish rather than sweetness, while espresso, exotic spice and turned earth linger on a smooth, dry finish. It is immediately charming, but there is enough structure and detail to keep every glass interesting.
For when you need one bottle that will win over the whole table.
Pairs with ribeye steak, rosemary-roasted lamb, braised beef, smoky barbecue, mushroom ragù, venison, or aged cheddar.
Boekenhoutskloof is one of the defining estates of modern South African wine. Established in 1776 and restored in 1993, it has become a benchmark for Syrah under Marc Kent, while The Chocolate Block has grown from a 15-barrel debut in 2002 into one of the Cape’s most recognised wines. The 2024 is sourced entirely from Swartland and draws heavily on the estate’s Porseleinberg and Goldmine farms, combining purity, structure and exceptional blending skill. The final blend is 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault and 1% Viognier.
Whats in the bottle
73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault and 1% Viognier.
Notable Awards
Platter’s South African Wine Guide: 94 points.
Tim Atkin MW: 93 points