Made from a blend of 71% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 9% Cinsault, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the 2019 Chocolate Block begins with a broad, juicy nose of spiced plum, blackberry compote, fresh cracked black peppercorn, dusty purple flowers and hints of baking spices. Medium to full-bodied, the wine initially expresses fresh, ripe and juicy dark fruit tones with an undercurrent of black and red spice before firm tannins grip the gumline. The wine concludes with a dusty and spicy finish and a lingering tannic edge. The wine spent 13 to 16 months in barrels before being blended. Almost 250,000 bottles were filled.

The 2019 Chocolate Block underwent whole-berry ferment in concrete and stainless steel. It has a lifted bouquet of mint-tinged blackberry and raspberry fruit plus light licorice notes. The palate is grippy on the entry. A spicy and peppery Chocolate Block with just a little reduction toward the finish, which feels a little drier than usual (though a second bottle showed more flesh).