Wine of the Week: 2011 Boekenhoutskloof ‘The Chocolate Block’

It’s time to think about wines for cooler weather, such as this one from South Africa. Boekenhoutskloof’s “The Chocolate Block” is a red Rhone blend, like a South African version of Chteauneuf-du-Pape — Syrah-dominated but with some Cabernet. And that chocolate in the name? The flavor is woven into this warm, full-blooded wine, along with notes of coriander, black pepper and dark berries.

Have it with braised short ribs or an oxtail stew. It pairs nicely with lamb too, and if you’ve got some venison on hand, this is the wine for it.

Region: Franschhoek Coastal Region, South Africa