The Chocolate Block

The Chocolate Block is a barrel-aged red wine made in Wine of Origin Swartland (Coastal Region) by the Boekenhoutskloof South African winery using the Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha Tinta, Cinsault, Syrah and Viognier varieties.

The Boekenhoutskloof winery already existed as an estate in 1776 in the beautiful Franschhoek valley, but it was not until 1993 when it went through a major shift in winemaking. They focus on using high-quality French varieties and organic wine-growing methods, starting in the vineyards. Under the leadership of winemaker Marc Kent, they make wines that are popular with everyone. 

The Chocolate Block comes from vines with an average age of 5 to 40 years old. These vines are planted in slate and granite soils and grow in a Mediterranean climate with ocean influences. The yield is between 4,000 and 8,000 kilograms per hectare and the harvest is carried out at the optimum point of ripeness.

Each variety used to make The Chocolate Block is vinified separately. The Garnacha variety ferments in 600-litre barrels and the Cabernet Sauvignon ages in new 2,500-litre French oak barrels for 12 months. When the wine is ready, it is clarified using egg, gently filtered and then bottled.

The Chocolate Block is a red wine with all the charm and personality of the wines that are being rethought by the new winemakers in South Africa. Authentic Swartland personality.