The Chocolate Block is a cult favourite – it usually sells out before it even hits the shop floor. It’s made by Boekenhoutskloof, recently named South Africa’s ‘Winery of the Year 2020’. Their winemaker, Marc Kent, is tight-lipped about how exactly this wine is made – but that only adds to its mystique. He tweaks the blend slightly with every vintage so no two Chocolate Blocks are quite the same. But it’s always a blend of rich and ripe Mediterranean varieties: Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon – with a touch of Viognier for added perfume. It’s seriously plush, packed with dark berry fruit. Think plums, blackberries, blueberries and cherries. Smooth, supple, with really fine tannins – it’s made to go with food. We can’t think of a better match than Moroccan lamb tagine.