Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2023

Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2023 – South Africa’s Famous Red Wine Cuvée

Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block is one of South Africa’s best-known red wines and is regarded worldwide as a benchmark for modern South African wine quality. This cuvée combines power, elegance and a strong sense of origin, impressing wine lovers and international critics year after year.

Anyone looking to buy The Chocolate Block is choosing an expressive South African red wine with dark fruit, fine spice, harmonious structure and excellent value for money.

Tim Atkin MW awarded the 2023 vintage 93 points and described it as “A seamless cuvée.” The quote perfectly reflects the balance for which The Chocolate Block is admired around the world.

The wine is produced by the renowned Boekenhoutskloof estate under the direction of Marc Kent. The grapes come mainly from selected vineyards in the Swartland, a region known for old vines, low yields and characterful red wines.

Why is the wine called “The Chocolate Block”?

Contrary to a common assumption, The Chocolate Block does not taste of chocolate. The name refers to a historic chocolate factory that once stood near the original Boekenhoutskloof estate in the Franschhoek Valley. Today, the name stands for one of South Africa’s most successful red wine cuvées.

The 2023 vintage

The Chocolate Block 2023 is a blend of 74% Syrah, complemented by Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Viognier. Syrah shapes the dark-fruited, spicy style. Grenache adds richness and red fruit, Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure, Cinsault contributes freshness and drinkability, while Viognier adds aromatic elegance.

In the glass, the wine shows a deep ruby-red colour. The bouquet recalls blackberries, dark cherries, plums and red berries, accompanied by black pepper, fynbos, liquorice, fine herbs and subtle roasted notes. On the palate, The Chocolate Block 2023 is juicy, concentrated and balanced, with ripe tannins, lively freshness and a long, spicy finish.

What does The Chocolate Block taste like?

The style combines the spice of Syrah with the generous fruit of Mediterranean varieties and the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon. Despite its power, the wine remains elegant, harmonious and accessible. This combination of depth, drinking pleasure and unmistakable character makes The Chocolate Block one of South Africa’s most popular red wines.

The origin: Swartland

The Swartland is one of South Africa’s most exciting wine regions. Its warm climate, low rainfall and old bush vines produce concentrated grapes with a distinctive sense of place. Syrah in particular develops the spicy, dark-fruited character that defines The Chocolate Block.

Food pairing

The Chocolate Block is a versatile food wine and pairs beautifully with grilled beef, lamb, game, slow-cooked dishes, Mediterranean cuisine and mature hard cheeses. Dishes with rosemary, thyme, garlic or roasted flavours also work especially well with this cuvée.

For best enjoyment, serve at 16 to 18 °C. One hour of aeration or decanting helps the complex aromas unfold beautifully.

Ageing potential

The 2023 vintage is already approachable, but also offers excellent ageing potential. Under good cellar conditions, The Chocolate Block 2023 can develop for at least ten years, gaining further complexity, elegance and depth.

Further vintages of The Chocolate Block

Discover the current vintage Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2024 as well as further available wines from Boekenhoutskloof.

Frequently asked questions

Does The Chocolate Block taste like chocolate?

No. The name refers to a historic chocolate factory. The aromas are shaped by dark fruit, herbs, spices and fine roasted notes.

Where do the grapes come from?

The grapes come mainly from selected vineyards in the Swartland.

Should The Chocolate Block be decanted?

One hour of aeration or decanting is recommended to allow the aromas to unfold fully.

Why is The Chocolate Block so popular?

The cuvée combines high quality, unmistakable character, international recognition and excellent value for money.