The Chocolate Block, by Boekenhoutskloof, debuted with the 2002 vintage, is a Syrah-based, Southern French-inspired red blend that has grown to be lauded as probably the most successful new wine to come out of South Africa in the modern era. Conceived by Marc Kent after inspiration from the southern Rhône and Priorat, the wine is widely considered iconic and one of the few South African wines of international relevance. Based on Syrah, with a supporting role played by Cabernet Sauvignon and a few other varieties, the final blend is always a cellar secret until release. The Chocolate Block is known as a densely flavoured, even hedonistic wine, whose precise make-up is tweaked from vintage to vintage to best reflect the season. Originally a multi-regional blend, The Chocolate Block was localised to a single appellation, Wine of Origin Swartland, from the 2015 vintage onwards, and now primarily showcases fruit from the stellar Swartland properties Porseleinberg (offering purity of fruit) and Goldmine (bringing structure). Consistent quality is reinforced by its maturation cellar which houses the world’s largest OXOLine barrel management system. A true modern classic of South African winemaking and always a treat for those who discover it.