{"title":"Boekenhoutskloof | South Africa","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBoekenhoutskloof is where mystery meets mastery, a winery that has rewritten the rules of South African winemaking. Tucked in the dramatic beauty of Franschhoek, this isn’t just a place where vines grow, it’s where stories are told, one bottle at a time. Under the visionary guidance of Marc Kent, this winery dares to blend history with innovation, crafting wines that have become nothing short of legendary.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"2021-porseleinberg-syrah","title":"2021 Porseleinberg Syrah","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOne of South Africa's Finest Syrahs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNamed after the majestic Porselein mountains in Swartland, where the winery is nestled, the vineyards are artistically tended by renowned oenologist Callie Louw to produce a truly remarkable wine. In 2009, Porseleinberg was acquired by Boekenhoutskloof, who skillfully incorporates a small portion of the grapes into their own exquisite wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Given its consistently outstanding quality, it’s easy to forget that the average age of Porseleinberg's 14 hectares of vineyards is only seven years' old. Showing what Callie Louw calls a \"little more crunch\" in 2021, this is a Syrah with time on its side. Wild herb aromas of sage, oregano and rosemary introduce you to a palate that's dense yet refined, with lots of whole bunch spice and structure, negligible oak influence, detailed, layered tannins, some underlying grip and layers of dark berry fruit. One of the world's great reds from a very special site. 2025-32\"\u003c\/em\u003e - \u003cstrong\u003e99 Points: Tim Atkin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: \u003c\/strong\u003eSwartland, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend: \u003c\/strong\u003eSyrah\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":44583658619074,"sku":"PO0321WA","price":70.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/2021-porseleinberg-syrah-caviste-wine-649100.jpg?v=1744284749"},{"product_id":"2023_boekenhoutskloof_chocolate_block_magnum","title":"2023 Boekenhoutskloof Chocolate Block (Magnum)","description":"\u003cp\u003eSituated in the majestic Franschhoek valley, Boekenhoutskloof was founded in 1776 and derived its name from the Cape Beech tree, ‘Boekenhout’. Appreciated for its use in furniture making, this distinctive tree is often found in the valley’s ravines. After undergoing some serious restoration in 1993 by a group of visionaries (led by Marc Kent), the farm initiated a new viticulture scheme, encompassing varieties such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Semillon, and Viognier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith their unwavering commitment to quality and a keen understanding of the terroir, they breathed new life into Boekenhoutskloof, setting the stage for a winemaking renaissance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrapes are whole-berry fermented in a combination of concrete and stainless steel fermenters with no additions being made. After spontaneous fermentation, most of the juice - about 95% - was transferred to seasoned 225L French barriques with the remaining put into new 225L French barriques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe aging ranged between 12-14 months, depending on variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blend is mostly Syrah in the 2022, with the rest of the blend made up with Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a splash of Cinsault and Viognier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe nose is rich and intense with its abundance of black- and blueberry fruit, ripe brambles, and notes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eof black olives, perfume and dust. Whiffs of white pepper and coriander seed add to the complexity.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe bright dark berries of the nose follow through onto a juicy, abundant palate with classic red \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eliquorice and fresh cherry flavours. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with a broad, weighty \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003emidpalate, yet the mouthfeel is smooth and gentle. Lively acidity and svelte, velvety tannins are balanced \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eand add to the elegance, focus and energy of the wine. Hints of cherry tobacco and exotic spice linger \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eon a pure, dry finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14.5%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003eSyrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Viognie\u003cem\u003er\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"150cl","offer_id":54902542664058,"sku":"BK0623RF","price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/2023-boekenhoutskloof-chocolate-block-magnum-caviste-wine-2465923.jpg?v=1763581419"},{"product_id":"2022-porseleinberg","title":"2022 Boekenhoutskloof Porseleinberg","description":"\u003ch3\u003eA Syrah of Rare Intensity and Precision\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c!-- Producer introductions — two alternative versions --\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoekenhoutskloof is one of South Africa’s most admired wine estates, with a reputation built on craft, patience and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Porseleinberg, their Syrah jewel, exemplifies this vision in its purest form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2022 Porseleinberg is a Syrah that reveals itself slowly, layer by layer. It is a wine that demands patience, unfolding aromas and flavours over time to reveal both strength and elegance. From its wild garrigue-like fragrance to its finely etched tannins, this is a wine that reflects a dramatic site and a complex season. Low alcohol by modern standards at 13.3%, it retains remarkable freshness, structure and depth. A compelling bottle to secure now, with decades of potential ahead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith critical acclaim including 99 points from Tim Atkin MW, it stands as both a collector’s wine and a profound sensory experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2022 vintage was shaped by heavy winter rains and an intense January heatwave, creating conditions that demanded precision in the vineyard. Winemaker Callie Louw harvested at lower sugar levels, producing the lowest alcohol Porseleinberg to date. Fermentation employed around 95% whole bunches, with the submerged cap technique ensuring even extraction and aromatic lift. Ageing took place in large foudres and 15% concrete, allowing the wine to evolve slowly without overt oak influence. The result is a Syrah that communicates its stony, windswept site with striking clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePairing Suggestions:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Syrah pairs beautifully with wild mushroom ragù or roasted aubergine for vegetarians, while for meat lovers it complements slow-roasted lamb shoulder, venison with juniper, or chargrilled ribeye steak. Its freshness and spice also make it a superb match with game birds and Mediterranean herb-based dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Note:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAromatic layers of violet, wild herbs and white pepper open into dark berry fruit, iron and earth. The palate is finely structured, with chalky tannins and an exceptionally long, mineral-driven finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwartland, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e13.3%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBlend:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSyrah\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":55180189729146,"sku":"PO0322RA","price":70.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/porseleinberg-syrah-2017.jpg?v=1744097811"},{"product_id":"2024-boekenhoutskloof-goldmine-white","title":"2024 Boekenhoutskloof Goldmine White","description":"\u003ch3\u003eStructured and Aromatic Treasure\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoekenhoutskloof has earned a global reputation for producing distinctive South African wines with a cult following. Known for pushing boundaries while respecting tradition, their wines offer remarkable complexity and longevity. Their iconic red, The Chocolate Block, has set the benchmark for South African wines, while their newer innovations, continue to showcase the versatility and richness of the Western Cape’s vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStep forward Goldmine, the white counterpart to the legendary Chocolate Block, offering a sophisticated Cape blend that captures the essence of South Africa’s diverse vineyards. Crafted from Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, and Viognier, this wine reflects both precision and personality, uniting far-flung vineyards into a single harmonious cuvée.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts layered complexity and balance, from oak-matured Semillon that provides structure and aging potential, while Swartland Chenin Blanc adds texture and richness. Chardonnay from the cool South Coast offers lift and finesse, and a touch of Viognier delivers delicate aromatics. The wine is medium-bodied, elegant, and vibrant, with integrated acidity, subtle oak nuances, and a clean, mineral-driven finish. Goldmine is designed for those who appreciate wines with depth, precision, and a sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWinemaking:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach varietal was vinified separately to highlight its unique character. Semillon, Chenin Blanc, and Viognier were matured in a combination of seasoned oak foudres, concrete eggs, and clay amphorae, while the Chardonnay was aged in new French oak barriques. Elevage ranged from 12-14 months depending on the vineyard parcel, after which the components were blended to create the final cuvée.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePairing Suggestions:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePairs beautifully with pan-seared fish, roasted chicken, creamy vegetarian risottos, or fresh goat’s cheese salads. Versatile for both lighter and richer dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTasting Note:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFresh aromas of quince, poached pear, and nectarine with hints of bruised apple and baking spice. Medium-bodied, round, and elegant with a pithy, slightly saline finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWestern Cape, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e13.0%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBlend:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, Viognier\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"70cl","offer_id":55969849868666,"sku":"BK1324WA","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/2024-boekenhoutskloof-goldmine-white-caviste-wine-3962031.png?v=1759238297"},{"product_id":"2023-boekenhoutskloof-porseleinberg","title":"2023 Boekenhoutskloof Porseleinberg","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“The 2023 growing season was \"dry and difficult\", according to Callie Louw, at least in this wild and starkly beautiful corner of the Swartland, but you wouldn’t know it from the quality  of this superlative Syrah. Picked late, right up to March 8th, it has the concentration and intensity of a small crop. Fermented with 90% whole clusters, with 70% of the wine using the submerged cap technique, it's one of the most sublime Porseleinbergs yet, pairing aromas of incense, thyme and black pepper with firm, age-worthy tannins, blackberry, red berry and liquorice flavours and a stony, mineral core. Truly world class. 2027-35.”\u003c\/em\u003e - \u003cstrong\u003e100 Points, Tim Atkin MW\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwartland, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBlend:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSyrah\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":55970589147514,"sku":null,"price":72.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Twelve x 75cl","offer_id":55970228306298,"sku":"PO0323RA","price":820.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/porseleinberg-syrah-2017.jpg?v=1744097811"},{"product_id":"2023-the-chocolate-block-jeroboam","title":"2023 The Chocolate Block (Jeroboam)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe latest release of The Chocolate Block - the 2022 vintage - is the wine's 21st release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow time flies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is also the first to fully utilise the newly renovated Maturation Cellar at the Helderberg Winery. Exciting times at the constantly evolving and developing team at Boekenhoutskloof.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated in the majestic Franschhoek valley, Boekenhoutskloof was founded in 1776 and derived its name from the Cape Beech tree, ‘Boekenhout’. Appreciated for its use in furniture making, this distinctive tree is often found in the valley’s ravines. After undergoing some serious restoration in 1993 by a group of visionaries (led by Marc Kent), the farm initiated a new viticulture scheme, encompassing varieties such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Semillon, and Viognier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith their unwavering commitment to quality and a keen understanding of the terroir, they breathed new life into Boekenhoutskloof, setting the stage for a winemaking renaissance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrapes are whole-berry fermented in a combination of concrete and stainless steel fermenters with no additions being made. After spontaneous fermentation, most of the juice - about 95% - was transferred to seasoned 225L French barriques with the remaining put into new 225L French barriques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe aging ranged between 12-14 months, depending on variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blend is mostly Syrah in the 2023, with the rest of the blend made up with Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a dash of Viognier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose is rich and intense with its abundance of black- and blueberry fruit, ripe brambles, and notes of black olives, perfume and dust. Whiffs of white pepper and coriander seed add to the complexity. The bright dark berries of the nose follow through onto a juicy, abundant palate with classic red liquorice and fresh cherry flavours. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with a broad, weighty midpalate, yet the mouthfeel is smooth, gentle. Lively acidity and svelte, velvety tannins are balanced and add to the elegance, focus and energy of the wine. Hints of cherry tobacco and exotic spice linger\u003cbr\u003eon a pure, dry finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14.35%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"300cl","offer_id":56200962015610,"sku":"BK0623RJ","price":155.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/products\/2022-the-chocolate-block-jeroboam-caviste-wine-300290.jpg?v=1744285359"},{"product_id":"2024-boekenhoutskloof-chocolate-block","title":"2024 Boekenhoutskloof Chocolate Block","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig, bold, and unapologetically indulgent, the 2024 Chocolate Block is a wine that commands attention and delivers on every promise. A daring blend that’s as iconic as it is irresistible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe magic of the Chocolate Block lies in its artistry. Sourcing fruit from Swartland’s ancient vines and Franschhoek’s cooler sites, the winemaking team meticulously balances intensity with finesse. Each grape variety - Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Viognier - is vinified separately to preserve its character. A careful maturation in French oak and concrete tanks rounds out the wine, adding complexity without overshadowing its vibrant fruit core.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePairing Suggestions: \u003c\/b\u003ePerfect with spiced lamb kofta, venison stew, smoky aubergine dip, or rich dark chocolate desserts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Note: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci\u003eA symphony of flavours, from luscious blackberries and ripe cherries to mocha, black pepper, and a whisper of violet. Silky and sumptuous, with a long, satisfying finish.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin: \u003c\/b\u003eFranschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAlcohol: \u003c\/b\u003e14.5%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBlend: \u003c\/b\u003eSyrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":56451565420922,"sku":"BK0224RA","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/2023-boekenhoutskloof-chocolate-block-caviste-wine-649820.jpg?v=1744367305"},{"product_id":"2022-boekenhoutskloof-syrah","title":"2022 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe grapes used in creating our 2022 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah are handpicked from exceptional areas of their Swartland farms, specifically Porseleinberg (90%) and Goldmine (10%) located near the charming town of Riebeek-Kasteel. The Porseleinberg vineyards are situated on a rugged and rocky bedrock of decomposed Mica-Schist, a unique terroir within the appellation. Meanwhile, the Goldmine vineyards, planted on the south-west slopes of the Kasteelberg, grow on Brown Schist with deposits of Table Mountain sandstone. This delicate combination results in an expression of concentrated and well-structured wines from this beloved Rhône grape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eRich notes of plums and blackberries with savoury black olive tamponade, and some spice, black pepper, star anise and clove.  Plush, silky texture on the palate with fine tannins, and vibrant acidity, an age-worthy wine with a long, spicy finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePairing Suggestion: \u003c\/strong\u003eBig game stew or some dark chocolate on a cold night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Swartland, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e Syrah\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":56504755028346,"sku":"BK0322RA","price":48.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/products\/2021-boekenhoutskloof-syrah-caviste-wine-174896.jpg?v=1743848655"},{"product_id":"2023-boekenhoutskloof-syrah","title":"2023 Boekenhoutskloof Syrah","description":"\u003cp\u003eGrapes for the Boekenhoutskloof Syrah are picked from select parcels of the finest Syrah grown on two of our Swartland farms, Porseleinberg (90%) and Goldmine (10%), close to the small town of Riebeek-Kasteel. The Porseleinberg vineyards are planted on an extremely hard and rocky bedrock of decomposed Mica-Schist; a unique ward-defining terroir within the appellation. The vineyards on Goldmine sit on the south-west slopes of the Kasteelberg and comprise of Brown Schist with deposits of Table Mountain sandstone, which is weathered and washed from the adjacent mountain. The delicate combination of these two properties allow for this expression of both concentrated and structured wines, made from this Rhône grape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe months leading into the 2023 Syrah harvest in the Swartland were textbook, with warm but moderate conditions, good soil moisture, and healthy vine growth pointing to a favourable ripening season. Later in the harvest window, the region experienced two significant heat spikes, a typical feature of the Swartland climate, which required careful vineyard management. Through attentive canopy work and selective harvesting, ripeness was successfully maintained, resulting in a high-quality Syrah vintage defined by balance, purity, and composure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe nose is complex, powerful and inviting with ample blue and black fruits and intense earthy, gamey aromas, with gentle whiffs of potting soil and forest floor. The dark berry profile of the nose follows through onto a fleshy, structured palate with flavours of blackberry, dark licorice and olive tapenade. The wine is full-bodied and expansive, with vibrant, integrated acidity and ripe, robust tannins balancing the opulent fruit profile. Red currants and exotic spice linger on a refreshing, pure finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePairing Suggestion: \u003c\/strong\u003eBig game stew or some dark chocolate on a cold night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Swartland, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e Syrah\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":56858686423418,"sku":"BK0323RA","price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/products\/2021-boekenhoutskloof-syrah-caviste-wine-174896.jpg?v=1743848655"},{"product_id":"2023-boekenhoutskloof-franschhoek-cabernet-sauvignon","title":"2023 Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon","description":"\u003cp\u003eGrapes for the Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon are picked from a negociant vineyard rooted deep in alluvial soils in the valley. Fruit from our own vineyards grow on slopes of decomposed granitic soils- a hallmark of the Bo-hoek district where Boekenhoutskloof is located. These home farm vineyards of Cabernet Sauvignon and small portion of Cabernet Franc, have been organically farmed and certified for the past 15 years and produce exceptional quality fruit with each new vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe winter preceding the 2023 harvest in Franschhoek was favourable, providing healthy soil moisture and setting the stage for a long, moderate ripening season. Although these vineyards are situated in one of the highest rainfall areas of the Western Cape, the vines have adapted well to the conditions and are planted on well-draining slopes, allowing for balanced vine growth and even ripening. Warm but not excessive temperatures through the season supported good vine health, and harvest began 7–10 days earlier than average. An unseasonal rain event later in the season required attentive vineyard management, but overall conditions resulted in a high-quality 2023 vintage for Franschhoek, marked by balance, purity, and composure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Note: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe nose is inviting and complex with ample dark cherry, fresh plum and bramble aromas and classic dusty whiffs of graphite and exotic spice. The rich, pure berry fruit of the nose follows through onto an elegant, balanced palate with intense blueberry and blackberry fruit and gentle notes of red liquorice, cloves and coriander spice from nuanced use of French oak. The wine is finely textured and classically styled with its vibrant yet integrated acidity and smooth, velvety midpalate. The wine is delicate yet focused with lithe, lively fine-grained tannins adding to its complex, harmonious structure. Hints of redcurrants, crème de cassis and cedar linger on the finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Franschhoek, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14.25%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":56858692419962,"sku":"BK1023RA","price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/products\/2021-boekenhoutskloof-franschhoek-cabernet-sauvignon-caviste-wine-481292.jpg?v=1743848653"},{"product_id":"2023-boekenhoutskloof-semillon","title":"2023 Boekenhoutskloof Semillon","description":"\u003cp\u003eOur Semillon is made from Certified Heritage Vineyards, which count amongst the oldest in South Africa. These three Franschhoek Semillon vineyards have acclimated to their terroirs, producing unique wines with intense depth and complexity. These old vineyards deep root systems and high skin-to-pulp ratio produce intensely complex, well-structured wines with unbelievable ageing potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo of the vineyards used for our Semillon, planted in 1902 and 1942, are unirrigated bush vines, growing on little to no slope in the ancient Franschhoek Riverbed. These vineyards are well established on alluvial soils with a high loam content. The third vineyard planted in 1936, is located further up the valley on a 45-degree south-facing slope, on decomposed granite and quartz soils. Some of the vines within these vineyards have naturally mutated from Semillon to Semillon Gris, which has a slight red hue and higher skin-to-pulp ratio. The Semillon Gris vines naturally require more ripening time and are only harvested during a second picking. We opted to use a small portion of historic Muscat d'Alexandrie, planted in 1902, to enhance the wine's aromatic character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe months leading into the 2023 harvest were ideal, with warm but moderate conditions, good soil moisture, and healthy vines, indicating a long and even ripening season. An unseasonal rain event in mid-March posed challenges for the later-ripening parcels (1902 Semillon \u0026amp; 1902 Muscat d’Alexandrie), but favourable conditions earlier in the season\u003cbr\u003eensured successful ripening. These conditions resulted in a high-quality vintage, characterised by balance, purity, and structure in the Franschhoek Semillon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Note: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe nose intrigues with complex aromas of orange blossom, fresh lime and gentle whiffs of marzipan and ginger spice. The complex citrus fruit of the nose follows through with intense flavours of blue orange, zesty lemon and grapefruit, with delicate hints of cinnamon, clove and star anise from the nuanced, integrated French oak. The wine is fresh, medium-bodied and richly textured with lively, balanced acidity and a smooth, creamy yet energetic midpalate. Gentle notes of balmy lemongrass and lightly toasted hazelnuts linger on a beautifully saline, vibrant, slightly pithy finish.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Franschhoek, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol:\u003c\/strong\u003e 13.2%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlend:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semillon, Muscat d'Alexandrie\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Boekenhoutskloof","offers":[{"title":"75cl","offer_id":56858698318202,"sku":"BK0423WA","price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Case of 6x75cl","offer_id":56858761462138,"sku":null,"price":270.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0624\/7229\/0498\/files\/2023-boekenhoutskloof-semillon-caviste-wine-5396800.jpg?v=1778001674"}],"url":"https:\/\/caviste.co.uk\/collections\/boekenhoutskloof-south-africa-1.oembed","provider":"Caviste Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}