Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2021

Description

Boekenhoutskloof describes the style of Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2021 as “a reflection of our belief that the Cape, with its Mediterranean climate, is eminently suited to blended reds. The make-up of this wine is tweaked from vintage to vintage to best reflect the season and the ancient vines of great character that are an integral part of the wine’s charm and personality.” 2021 was the 20th vintage of this iconic wine and the cooler vintage meant a longer ripening period resulting in “excellent grape quality” and a more restrained, elegant wine. The 2021 vintage is made up of Syrah 74%, Grenache 10%, Cinsault 8%, Cabernet Sauvignon 7% and Viognier 1%. The Syrah is the backbone of this wine with black fruits and black olive notes, the Grenache bringing fruit and finesse, the Cinsault floral and strawberry notes and the Cabernet Sauvignon tannins and structure. 1% Viognier gives the red wine an aromatic lift. This wine will develop a little more over a few years but its lovely texture and myriad of flavours – dark berries, spice, chocolate, white pepper – can be enjoyed now.

Boekenhoutskloof in the beautiful Franschhoek valley in South Africa is perhaps best known for this iconic red blend, The Chocolate Block. I also have its amazing Semillon in stock. Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech tree greatly prized for making fine furniture. The Boekenhoutskloof label features seven chairs, in the words of the winery “to pay tribute to the skills of 18th century craftsmen and their achievements in creating beauty from natural sources, just like the pursuit of fine wine-making.” Marc Kent is the chief winemaker and driving force behind Boekenhoutskloof. He likes to experiment with the unconventional but his principal commitment is to quality.

This wine is suitable for vegetarians but not for vegans.