Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier
75cl * Vegan * 14.5% ABV * South Africa
Syrah is the predominant variety and makes up 74% of the blend. The Grenache from bush vines on Porseleinberg is the quiet superstar of the blend, offering pure fruit brightness and texture. The extended hang times allowed for elegant Swartland Cabernet Sauvignon and the Viognier lifts the aromatics to great effect.
Intense blackberry, bramble, and lavender aromas with gentle nuances of potting soil and cured meat dominate a dark and brooding nose. The abundance of perfume and the earthy character of the nose follows through generously onto a powerful palate, with a lush compote of blueberries, ripe plums, black currants & cherries. Cacao-powdery tannins are abundant, adding texture and complexity to an almost savoury mid-palate, seamlessly complementing the vivid dark fruits, alcohol and acidity. This is a robust, structured wine, yet it is delicate, poised and elegant at the same time. Black fruits, cumin spice, white pepper, liquorice and hints of garrigue persist on a velvety finish.
“A skilfully blended and packaged wine that manages to shift large volumes at an extremely profitable price, The Chocolate Block is a clever assemblage of mostly Syrah from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards with 9% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. Fleshy, perfumed and smooth, it has sweet goji berry and summer pudding fruit, velvety tannins, scented cinnamon oak and a fresh, lifted finish. 2024-29” 93/100 Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Report (09/2023)