Product Review
The 2011 Chocolate Block is a blend of 69% Syrah, and the rest Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier that sees a judicious 11% new oak. It has a compact bouquet of blackberry and licorice with hints of mocha just in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with a fresh, minty opening. The tannins feel lithe in the mouth and the acidity is well-judged. Though the finish is uncomplicated, it is nicely focused with plenty of fresh blackberry and raspberry notes to satisfy the masses that continue to enjoy this wine. Drink now-2015.
Boekenhoutskloof has been one of Franschhoek's, indeed one of South Africa's leading wineries for a number of years under the inspired leadership of Mark Kent. Their entry-level ranges, Porcupine Ridge, Chocolate Block and Wolftrap, serve as many consumers' introduction to South African wines and they represent great value, while their top wines have won plaudits both at home and abroad. However, this was the first time where I felt that the wines had been pushed a little
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most prominent dark-skinned grape varieties except Merlot in terms of area under vines, but which comprises our largest selection of wines. Grown in just about every wine producing region and climate, Cabernet Sauvignon can express a huge range of aromas, from green peppers in cool climates through to dark jammy fruit in hot regions. Common aromas include blackcurrants, mint, graphite, and forest floor, to name a few. Maturation in small oak barrels can develop a complex range of aromas from cedar wood, cigar box and tobacco to eucalyptus and undergrowth. Cabernet Sauvignon’s success is partly due to its ability to adapt to a range of soils and climates. It is the main constituent of the Bordeaux blend in the revered communes of Pauillac, St. Estephe and St. Julien, and has achieved equal success in California’s Napa Valley. It is grown extensively throughout Southern Australia, with some outstanding examples from the Terra Rossa soil of Coonawarra. Cabernet Sauvignon also plays an increasing role in Tuscany, Italy, where it is blended with native varieties such as Sangiovese to produce the Super Tuscans.
Red wine is wine made from dark-coloured grape varieties. The color of red differs based on the grapes variety or varieties used.Interestingly, black grapes yield a juice that is greenish-white. The actual red color comes from anthocyan pigments (also called anthocyanins) from the skin of the grape (exceptions are the relatively uncommon teinturier varieties, which produce a red colored juice). Most of the production centers around the extraction of color and flavor from the grape skin.
