92 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "The 2018 The Chocolate Block is sourced from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg farms, the Cabernet originating from Voor-Paaderberg, and matured for 16 months in used oak barrels. It offers generous black plum and black currant aromas, pressed rose petals and a touch of menthol. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, and much more structured than the vintages of old (as I have pointed out in previous reviews), displaying fennel, bay leaf and white pepper toward the finish. This feels long in the mouth. A classy Chocolate Block that treads a fine line between commercial and intellectual appeal. Drink: 2022-2035. (Nov 2019)"
91 points Anthony Mueller (Wine Advocate): "A blend of 69% Syrah, 13%Grenache, 9% Cinsault, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the 2018 Chocolate Block begins with a delightfully expressive nose that bursts with red and black berry essence, chocolate ganache and seductive oak tones. Aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, dark cherry skin, dusty plum, black pepper, sweet tobacco and baked clay all sing in unison in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is expressive as it unpacks layers across the mid-palate, showing a beautifully balanced structure and chassis that holds its bold frame. Dusty flavors of bitter dark chocolate, black tea and dusty black raspberry sway with a mineral tension and oak essence on the long, lingering finish. This is absolutely delicious and is another successful Chocolate Block for the books. Well done! Drink: 2021-2034. (Feb 2021)"
90 points James Button (Decanter): "A blend of predominantly Syrah, with Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet and a splash of Viognier, sourced from Swartland, Piekenierskloof, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, this wine is no shrinking violet and enjoys a loyal fanbase who expect it to deliver the big, smooth, rich - even chocolatey! - flavours it is known for. This latest vintage is more of the same, with violet-tinged black fruits alongside coffee, chocolate and some woody touches, balanced out by bright acidity. (Oct 2019)"
91 points Anthony Mueller (Wine Advocate): "A blend of 69% Syrah, 13%Grenache, 9% Cinsault, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the 2018 Chocolate Block begins with a delightfully expressive nose that bursts with red and black berry essence, chocolate ganache and seductive oak tones. Aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, dark cherry skin, dusty plum, black pepper, sweet tobacco and baked clay all sing in unison in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is expressive as it unpacks layers across the mid-palate, showing a beautifully balanced structure and chassis that holds its bold frame. Dusty flavors of bitter dark chocolate, black tea and dusty black raspberry sway with a mineral tension and oak essence on the long, lingering finish. This is absolutely delicious and is another successful Chocolate Block for the books. Well done! Drink: 2021-2034. (Feb 2021)"
90 points James Button (Decanter): "A blend of predominantly Syrah, with Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet and a splash of Viognier, sourced from Swartland, Piekenierskloof, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, this wine is no shrinking violet and enjoys a loyal fanbase who expect it to deliver the big, smooth, rich - even chocolatey! - flavours it is known for. This latest vintage is more of the same, with violet-tinged black fruits alongside coffee, chocolate and some woody touches, balanced out by bright acidity. (Oct 2019)"
| Product SKU | 703256 |
| Producer | Boekenhoutskloof |
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Western Cape |
| Varietal | Other Red Blends |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Size | 750ml |
| Color | Red |
| Ships To |
