2023 The Chocolate Block, Boekenhoutskloof Your Store

2023 The Chocolate Block, Boekenhoutskloof

Western Cape, South Africa

The 2023 vintage of The Chocolate Block continues to build on its legacy as one of South Africa’s most iconic and sought-after red blends. Crafted predominantly from Syrah, with carefully selected additions of Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Viognier (blend proportions vary annually), this cult-status wine showcases Boekenhoutskloof’s mastery in balancing innovation and consistency. Only 4,043 barrels were produced, further enhancing its rarity and appeal.

In the glass, the wine opens with an intensely aromatic bouquet of blackberries, blueberries, and ripe bramble fruit, intertwined with black olive tapenade, crushed violets, and a dusting of white pepper and coriander seed. The palate is rich yet polished, delivering layers of dark berry fruit, red liquorice, and cherry compote, underscored by hints of cherry tobacco and exotic spice.

Despite its medium to full body, the wine remains elegant and focused, with vibrant acidity and silky tannins that glide across the palate. The finish is long, dry, and laced with a touch of savoury complexity, reflecting both the terroir and meticulous craftsmanship behind the blend.

A compelling, age-worthy red that drinks beautifully now but will reward cellaring over the next 5–8 years. Ideal with flame-grilled meats, game dishes, or rich Mediterranean fare.

Whats in the bottle
Syrah (74%), Grenache (11%), Cabernet Sauvignon (8%), Cinsault (6%), Viognier (1%)

Notable Awards
93 points – James Suckling 91 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

£24.95
Taxes included.

Complete the look:

Riedel Veritas New World Shiraz - Set of 2 Your Store

Riedel Veritas New World Shiraz - Set of 2

£49.95

  • Producer Information
  • Winemaking
  • Tech Stuff

Boekenhoutskloof is one of South Africa’s most prestigious and internationally acclaimed wineries, located in the Franschhoek Valley, Western Cape. Established in 1776 and revitalised in 1993, the estate has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and the revival of South African fine wine.

The name “Boekenhoutskloof” means “ravine of the Boekenhout,” referencing a native Cape beech tree prized for its fine wood. The estate’s rebirth under winemaker and owner Marc Kent focused on planting noble varietals such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Semillon, and Viognier, aligned with a philosophy of minimal intervention and terroir expression.

Boekenhoutskloof is especially renowned for its Syrah with flagship labels such as Boekenhoutskloof Syrah and The Chocolate Block, a cult-status red blend that has become one of South Africa’s most sought-after wines. Their dedication to site selection and meticulous viticulture extends into the Swartland, where they source grapes from old-vine heritage vineyards to complement their Franschhoek production.

Today, Boekenhoutskloof is a benchmark for modern South African winemaking, consistently earning high international praise and playing a pivotal role in the country’s global wine renaissance.

Grapes are whole-berry fermented in a combination of concrete and stainless steel fermenters with no additions being made. After spontaneous fermentation, we transferred the juice to seasoned 225L French barrique. The élevage ranged between 12-14 months, depending on variety.

Alcohol by Volume
14%

Vintage
2023

Country
South Africa

Size
750ml

Types
Red Wine

Producer
Boekenhoutskloof

Grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, Viognier

Region
Western Cape

Sub-Region
Swartland

2023 The Chocolate Block, Boekenhoutskloof

£24.95

•

Free South Wales delivery on orders over £100

•

Free UK delivery on orders over £175.
  • South Africa