Boekenhoutskloof 'The Chocolate Block' 2008

Boekenhoutskloof 'The Chocolate Block' 2008 another solid effort

Tasting Notes

12/30/09
888 Barrels produced, a blend of Syrah (69%), Grenache (12%), Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), Cinsault (7%) and Viognier (2%), respectively. The nose offers up a captivating, intriguing aromatic profile, showcasing a combo of red and black fruit tones, a mocha, toast component, spice - clove, a hint of white pepper, and a floral element that gives lift to the nose. Medium fuller bodied, the textural aspect of the wine gives a nice soft palate feel, with exceptional fruit concentration, rich without excessive weight. Very accessible with its bright fruit and sleek riper tannins, the finish is impressively long with an end note somewhat reminding of dusty cocoa powder.
This is a bit more fuller bodied than last years version, the fruit is darker and more concentrated. Maybe not as sleek and pretty this has a more meaty texture with deeper fruit and more weight. Another impressive effort this should show well over the next 3-4 years.
(Gregg Phillips)

Awards, Reviews and other Notes

91 pts Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Mar/Apr 2011
(a blend of 69% syrah, 12% grenache, 10% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cinsault and 2% viognier): Bright, dark ruby-red. Sexy, precise aromas of black raspberry, violet, licorice, woodsmoke and spicecake. Silky on entry, then bright and savory in the middle, with very good intensity to the dark berry flavors. Seems more serious than previous vintages. Today the wine's suave tannins cover the fruit on the brisk but seamless finish. I'd cellar this impressively long blend for at least a couple of years.
Wine Spectator 88 pts 8/31/10
A soft, fleshy, smoky style, with tobacco, mulled plum and toast notes and a medium-weight finish. A crowd-pleasing style that shows good range. Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Viognier. Drink now.

Price

SKU

Varietal

$31.99

8637

Red Blend