R630,00
TA – Tim Atkin MW
PG – Platter’s Wine Guide
The nose is subdued initially, opening up with layers of blueberry and blackberry fruit, aromas of black cherry compote and gentle whiffs of cedar and tobacco. The dark berry fruit of the nose follows through onto a lively palate, with flavours of liquorice, red currant and juicy, fresh plums and delicate notes of cloves, nutmeg and churned soil. The wine is medium-bodied with a lithe, round midpalate, and vibrant, integrated acidity. Velvety tannins and clever, classic French oaking provide a subtle grip, adding to the firm texture and balance of the dark fruit profile. Hints of espresso and ex o tie spice linger on a smooth, dry, slightly earthy finish.
The 2016 Chocolate Block is a blend of Syrah (79%), Grenache Noir (11%), Cabernet Sauvignon (6%), Cinsault (3%) and Viognier (1%). Due to the looming drought conditions, yields were much lower, resulting in higher berry concentration and healthier grapes. Phenolic ripeness was easily achieved, with the harvesting of grapes taking place earlier, during the cooler stages of the harvest period. The increased volume of Grenache Noir in the blend enhances the flavour profile significantly, with Syrah being our structural backbone. The Grenache was matured in 600L barrels to retain its unmistakable fruity aromas and vibrancy. The wine matures in 1st (all of the Cabernet Sauvignon), 2nd and 3rd fill French oak barrels as well as 2500L French oak foudres for 16 months before it undergoes a light egg-white fining and filtration. 1 979 barriques were selected for our 2016 vintage.
| Weight | 1 kg |
|---|
