The Chocolate Block 2023 75cl

The Chocolate Block 2023 Swartland Red Wine 75cl

Overview

Chocolate Block 2023 is a refined red wine from the Swartland, shaped by a challenging yet rewarding growing season. During 2023, below-average rainfall placed significant stress on the vines and led to smaller canopies and naturally low yields. However, the absence of extreme December and January heat allowed the fruit to ripen slowly. As a result, the wine shows freshness, balance, and elegance rather than excess power.

In addition, the move to Wine of Origin Swartland allows closer vineyard management and a strong focus on sustainable viticulture. Therefore, the wine prioritises purity of fruit, structure, and long-term consistency. You can also explore more Swartland wines and other South African red wines in our collection.

Taste & Aroma of Chocolate Block 2023

First, the nose opens with rich aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and ripe bramble fruit. Then, layers of black olive, perfume, and gentle dusty spice emerge, adding complexity. At the same time, hints of white pepper and coriander seed lift the aromatics and bring freshness.

On the palate, bright dark berries remain juicy and expressive. As a result, flavours of red liquorice and fresh cherry follow through clearly. Overall, the wine feels medium to full-bodied with a broad yet smooth mid-palate. Meanwhile, lively acidity and svelte, velvety tannins stay well integrated, which gives the wine focus and energy. Finally, notes of cherry tobacco and exotic spice linger on a pure, dry finish.

How This Swartland Red Wine Is Made

Grapes were whole-berry fermented in a combination of concrete and stainless-steel fermenters with no additions. Afterwards, spontaneous fermentation completed naturally. Then, the wine transferred to seasoned 225-litre French oak barrels. Depending on the variety, the élevage lasted between 12 and 14 months, which preserved freshness while building structure.

How to Serve This Swartland Red

Serve this wine at 16–18°C. Ideally, decant for 30–60 minutes because this allows the aromatics to open fully. In addition, it pairs well with grilled meats, lamb, slow-cooked dishes, and richly spiced food. Likewise, it complements hard cheeses and earthy vegetarian dishes.

About the Producer

Boekenhoutskloof’s The Chocolate Block blends fruit from Swartland vineyards with a clear emphasis on purity and balance. Over time, the shift to Wine of Origin Swartland has strengthened vineyard control and sustainability. As a result, the wines have become more refined while retaining their distinctive character.

Learn more on the official producer page:
https://www.boekenhoutskloof.co.za/thechocolate-block/

Delivery & Returns

We offer worldwide delivery with secure packaging to protect the bottle during transit. Before dispatch, our team prepares each order carefully. Therefore, bottles arrive safely and in excellent condition. Returns are accepted in line with our standard returns policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What style of wine is Chocolate Block 2023?
It is a Swartland red wine with dark berry fruit, savoury spice, and a smooth, structured finish.

Was 2023 a difficult vintage in Swartland?
Yes. Rainfall was below average, so vines carried lower yields. However, cooler conditions helped preserve balance and elegance.

Does this wine contain residual sugar?
It finishes dry. As a result, it tastes fresh and focused rather than sweet.

Should I decant Chocolate Block 2023?
Yes. Ideally, decant for 30–60 minutes because this lifts the aromatics and softens the tannins.

What food pairs well with Chocolate Block 2023?
It pairs well with grilled meats, lamb, stews, rich vegetarian dishes, and aged cheeses.

Can I age Chocolate Block 2023?
Yes. It has the structure for short- to medium-term ageing. Over time, it can develop more savoury complexity.

Do you offer international shipping?
Yes. We ship worldwide. However, local duties and taxes may apply depending on destination.

Responsible Drinking

Please enjoy responsibly.

The Chocolate Block 2023 Swartland Red Wine 75cl

Overview

Chocolate Block 2023 is a refined red wine from the Swartland, shaped by a challenging yet rewarding growing season. During 2023, below-average rainfall placed significant stress on the vines and led to smaller canopies and naturally low yields. However, the absence of extreme December and January heat allowed the fruit to ripen slowly. As a result, the wine shows freshness, balance, and elegance rather than excess power.

In addition, the move to Wine of Origin Swartland allows closer vineyard management and a strong focus on sustainable viticulture. Therefore, the wine prioritises purity of fruit, structure, and long-term consistency. You can also explore more Swartland wines and other South African red wines in our collection.

Taste & Aroma of Chocolate Block 2023

First, the nose opens with rich aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and ripe bramble fruit. Then, layers of black olive, perfume, and gentle dusty spice emerge, adding complexity. At the same time, hints of white pepper and coriander seed lift the aromatics and bring freshness.

On the palate, bright dark berries remain juicy and expressive. As a result, flavours of red liquorice and fresh cherry follow through clearly. Overall, the wine feels medium to full-bodied with a broad yet smooth mid-palate. Meanwhile, lively acidity and svelte, velvety tannins stay well integrated, which gives the wine focus and energy. Finally, notes of cherry tobacco and exotic spice linger on a pure, dry finish.

How This Swartland Red Wine Is Made

Grapes were whole-berry fermented in a combination of concrete and stainless-steel fermenters with no additions. Afterwards, spontaneous fermentation completed naturally. Then, the wine transferred to seasoned 225-litre French oak barrels. Depending on the variety, the élevage lasted between 12 and 14 months, which preserved freshness while building structure.

How to Serve This Swartland Red

Serve this wine at 16–18°C. Ideally, decant for 30–60 minutes because this allows the aromatics to open fully. In addition, it pairs well with grilled meats, lamb, slow-cooked dishes, and richly spiced food. Likewise, it complements hard cheeses and earthy vegetarian dishes.

About the Producer

Boekenhoutskloof’s The Chocolate Block blends fruit from Swartland vineyards with a clear emphasis on purity and balance. Over time, the shift to Wine of Origin Swartland has strengthened vineyard control and sustainability. As a result, the wines have become more refined while retaining their distinctive character.

Learn more on the official producer page:
https://www.boekenhoutskloof.co.za/thechocolate-block/

Delivery & Returns

We offer worldwide delivery with secure packaging to protect the bottle during transit. Before dispatch, our team prepares each order carefully. Therefore, bottles arrive safely and in excellent condition. Returns are accepted in line with our standard returns policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What style of wine is Chocolate Block 2023?
It is a Swartland red wine with dark berry fruit, savoury spice, and a smooth, structured finish.

Was 2023 a difficult vintage in Swartland?
Yes. Rainfall was below average, so vines carried lower yields. However, cooler conditions helped preserve balance and elegance.

Does this wine contain residual sugar?
It finishes dry. As a result, it tastes fresh and focused rather than sweet.

Should I decant Chocolate Block 2023?
Yes. Ideally, decant for 30–60 minutes because this lifts the aromatics and softens the tannins.

What food pairs well with Chocolate Block 2023?
It pairs well with grilled meats, lamb, stews, rich vegetarian dishes, and aged cheeses.

Can I age Chocolate Block 2023?
Yes. It has the structure for short- to medium-term ageing. Over time, it can develop more savoury complexity.

Do you offer international shipping?
Yes. We ship worldwide. However, local duties and taxes may apply depending on destination.

Responsible Drinking

Please enjoy responsibly.