The Chocolate Block

South Africa, Western Cape, Swartland
Bottle
Ratings
WA 91 · AG 91 · JS 92
Identity
Producer Boekenhoutskloof
Vol 75
Grapes Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Viognier
Color Red
Tasting
Color Desc Almost ink-black, deep ruby/red hue.
Aroma Dark berries, plums, hints of vanilla, black chocolate, smoky spice, tobacco leaf, floral notes of hyacinth and violet, sweet milk tones, subtle earthiness.
Palate Medium-plus body, firm yet refined tannins, fresh acidity, crunchy red fruit, fine spice, peppery edge, balanced structure.
Finish Long, lingering finish with pronounced mineral backbone, fine black pepper, cocoa bitterness and ripe fruit essence.
Food Pairing Grilled meats, beef dishes, spicy sausages, roasted lamb, hearty stews.
Profile
Acidity (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Body (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Aroma (1-5)
HIGH
Astringency (1-5)
AVERAGE
Minerality (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Enology
Aging Process Aged in 95% used French barrique and 5% new French barrique for 12-14 months in oak barrels
Fermentation Whole-berry fermented in concrete and stainless steel fermenters, spontaneous fermentation, then transferred to French oak barriques
Interesting facts
Name refers to chocolate notes; shifted from generic Western Cape to Wine of Origin Swartland in 2015; first vintage using OXOline system in Helderberg Maturation Cellar.