The Chocolate Block 6L

This wine pairs well with rich, meaty dishes such as slow-braised beef, game meats, and lamb. Its complex flavor profile also complements dishes featuring earthy spices and roasted vegetables.

The grapes for the 2022 Chocolate Block were sourced primarily from the Swartland region, including the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards. The 2022 growing season experienced a delayed start due to cold winter conditions, with budding occurring 2–3 weeks later than average. Frequent rain showers during the season ensured lush canopy growth, protecting clusters from sunburn during the hot December and January months.

The 2022 Chocolate Block was matured for approximately 12 to 14 months in French oak barrels. Syrah and Cinsault components were aged in a combination of seasoned 2,500L French oak foudres and barriques, Grenache in seasoned 600L demi-muids, and Cabernet Sauvignon in new French oak barriques.

The wine underwent whole berry fermentation, with each varietal vinified separately. The fermentation process utilized the OXOline system within the renovated maturation cellar at Helderberg Winery, allowing for gentle and consistent barrel rotation.

Boekenhoutskloof was established in 1776. Located in the furthest corner of the beautiful Franschhoek valley the farm’s name means “ravine of the Boekenhout” (pronounced Book-n-Howed). Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech tree greatly prized for furniture making. In 1993 the farm and homestead was bought and restored and a new vineyard planting programme was established that now includes Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Grenache Semillon and Viognier.