Region: Franschhoek Valley, South Africa

Composition: Blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, and Viognier

History: Boekenhoutskloof was established in 1776. Located in the furthest corner of the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, the farm’s name means “ravine of the Boekenhout” (pronounced Bookn-Howed). The Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech tree greatly prized for furniture making. In 1993 the farm and homestead was bought and restored and a new vineyard planting program was established that now includes Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Semillon, and Viognier. Today, Marc Kent is the owner, chief winemaker, and driving force behind the dynamic farm. 

Tasting Notes:

The nose is intense, dark, and brooding with an abundance of black fruit aromas and scents of violets, pepper and cured meat with gentle whiffs of dried coriander and tar. The savory, gamey aromas and dark berries of the nose follow through onto the palate with flavors of licorice, black olives, and cardamom and hints of cranberry, red currant and cloves. The mid-palate is full, rich and smooth with supple tannins and integrated acidity and shows sweet tobacco and spicy undertones from subtle oaking. The wine lingers in the mouth with a smoky, slightly charry, yet very juicy finish.