2023 Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block

Boekenhoutskloof Wines

Boekenhoutskloof is a prominent winery in Franschhoek that impresses, above all, with its exceptional quality. Despite its somewhat unusual Afrikaans name for the ‘French’ Franschhoek, Boekenhoutskloof was founded over three centuries ago by French Huguenots.

Current winemaker Marc Kent maintains strong ties with France. He visits at least once a year, particularly to Cornas in the northern Rhône, to draw fresh inspiration. Marc Kent, Managing Partner & Technical Director of Boekenhoutskloof, is a maverick spirit and the driving force behind the various brands and estates within the Boekenhoutskloof stable. Unafraid to experiment with the unconventional, his primary focus remains on delivering quality at every level and in every detail. Marc is just as committed to the ongoing development and growth of Boekenhoutskloof as he is to the broader South African wine industry. Since its inception, he has been actively involved with the Franschhoek Wine Valley Tourism Association as a board member and has chaired the Vignerons de Franschhoek multiple times. Through Boekenhoutskloof’s investments in the Swartland wine region, he became one of the founders of the Swartland Revolution and the Swartland Independent Producers Association.

Boekenhoutskloof is one of South Africa’s most renowned wineries, located in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley. Since its establishment in 1776, the estate has been known for its elegant, characterful wines where terroir and tradition take center stage. From iconic blends to refined single varietals, this winery offers a broad selection of top-tier wines.

Fun fact: On the top of each bottle’s capsule, you’ll find an image of a slender female figure. She is the emblem of Boekenhoutskloof, inspired by an early Cape of Good Hope silver mark, carrying the dove of peace and hope. She stands guard over Boekenhoutskloof and symbolizes intrinsic quality above all else.

About Boekenhoutskloof

The name Boekenhoutskloof translates to "ravine of the Boekenhout," referring to a native Cape beech tree prized for fine furniture. Nestled at the foot of the Groot Drakenstein mountains, the vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate and rich soil structure. Under the guidance of winemaker Marc Kent, Boekenhoutskloof blends traditional winemaking techniques with modern insights.

At home in Franschhoek, Marc Kent has made a name for himself with standout wines such as Boekenhoutskloof Semillon, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon—each ranked among South Africa’s very best. But Kent has more arrows in his quiver. Alongside these limited-production flagship wines, he also produces exceptionally appealing wines under the Porcupine Ridge and The Wolftrap labels, making quality accessible to a broader audience. At a higher level, the famed The Chocolate Block also belongs to this portfolio. In 2020, Boekenhoutskloof was named Winery of the Year by Platter’s Wine Guide.

Climate and Vineyards of Boekenhoutskloof

Key grape varieties include Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Semillon, each carefully selected and vinified to express the best of the region.

Boekenhoutskloof’s vineyards are spread across Franschhoek and the Swartland region, each offering a unique terroir. In Franschhoek, the vines benefit from a temperate Mediterranean climate, with cool sea breezes ensuring slow ripening and freshness. The soils here consist of granite and slate, contributing to the wines’ minerality and complexity.

In Swartland (where, among others) the Syrah is grown, the climate is warmer and drier. Old bush vines, deeply rooted in the region’s poor, schist-rich soils, yield concentrated grapes with powerful aromas and impressive structure. This blend of terroirs gives Boekenhoutskloof wines their hallmark balance of power and elegance.

Buy Boekenhoutskloof wines

At Grandcruwijnen, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of Boekenhoutskloof wines. Here’s a taste of our collection:

The Chocolate Block

Boekenhoutskloof’s most renowned wine. The Chocolate Block is a bold blend primarily of Syrah, complemented by Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Viognier. Expect aromas of dark berries, cocoa, and spices, with a velvety-smooth finish.

Boekenhoutskloof Syrah

A complex, elegant red wine from old Swartland vineyards. This Syrah is defined by notes of black pepper, violets, and red fruit, supported by subtle oak nuances.

Boekenhoutskloof Semillon

A white wine with a rich history. The Semillon comes from centuries-old vines in Franschhoek and offers layers of citrus, honey, and light minerality—perfect for lovers of structured, deep wines.

Buy Boekenhoutskloof at Grandcruwijnen

Looking for Boekenhoutskloof wines? At Grandcruwijnen, you can easily order online, directly from our cellar in Dordrecht. Visit us for in-store pickup or choose fast home delivery. Experience the excellence of South African winemaking with Boekenhoutskloof!