Boekenhoutskloof Chocolate Block 2021

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Boekenhoutskloof
Label Name:
 
Chocolate Block
Vintage:
 
2021
Country:
 
South Africa
Region:
 
Franschhoek Valley (fruit partly from Swartland)
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
14.5%
Grape(s):
 
74% Syrah, 10% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Viognier
Acidity:
 
3
Tannins:
 
3
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
4
Aroma Intensity:
 
4
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
Notable ratings for the 2021: Wine Advocate ~92, James Suckling ~91-92, Neal Martin ~90, Tim Atkin ~92; Platter’s Guide 5 stars

Tasting Note
Dense black and blue fruits with violet perfume, black olive and spice; cocoa-powder tannins, espresso and licorice lead to a long, plush finish with subtle dark-chocolate notes.

Food Pairing
Western: grilled lamb, roast beef, braised short ribs, dark chocolate desserts. Asian: Korean BBQ, char siu pork, Sichuan pepper beef, teriyaki beef or hoisin-glazed dishes.

Production Method
Whole-berry fermentation (co-fermented with Viognier), matured ~14 months in a mix of large French foudres and mostly neutral French oak barrels.

Vineyard Info
Boekenhoutskloof, established 1776 and revitalized in 1993 under Marc Kent, is a leading Franschhoek producer known for Rhône-style Syrah blends like The Chocolate Block.