Boekenhoutskloof

Boekenhoutskloof is an iconic wine estate from Franschhoek in South Africa and ranks among the very best in the South African wine world. The historic estate was founded in 1776 and is located in the northwestern corner of the Franschhoek Valley. After a restoration and replanting of the vineyards in the 1990s, the estate developed into one of the country's leading producers.
The driving force behind the success of Boekenhoutskloof is winemaker and managing partner Marc Kent. Under his leadership, the winery gained international recognition thanks to an uncompromising focus on quality, terroir, and innovation. Kent is known for his vision of South African wine and his ability to create powerful, complex, and at the same time elegant wines that are highly valued worldwide.
Boekenhoutskloof is especially known for its expressive Syrah wines and the globally beloved blend The Chocolate Block. Today, Boekenhoutskloof is regarded as one of the leading ambassadors of South African wine.
Read more about the different wines
Boekenhoutskloof
The Boekenhoutskloof line is at the heart of the winery and embodies Marc Kent’s vision for South African wine: uncompromising quality, a strong focus on terroir, and a constant pursuit of perfection. For these wines, grapes are selected exclusively from exceptional vineyards, with the goal of showcasing the purest expression of each grape variety and origin.
Cap Maritime
With Cap Maritime, Boekenhoutskloof turns its attention to the cool coastal influences of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. The project was born out of the conviction that this region is perfect for wines with finesse, elegance, and complexity. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir take center stage, with the terroir always taking the lead. The wines combine New World fruitiness with a refined, almost Burgundian style, showcasing just how versatile South Africa can be.
Goldmine
Goldmine is a tribute to the exceptional Syrah vineyards of Swartland. The name refers to the enormous potential of this region, which Marc Kent considers a true treasure trove for the Syrah grape. The wines come from carefully selected plots and are characterized by intense concentration, spiciness, and minerality. Goldmine showcases the wild, authentic side of Swartland, without losing sight of elegance.
Porseleinberg
Porseleinberg is one of the most ambitious projects within the Boekenhoutskloof family. The wine comes from a single vineyard on the steep slopes of the Porseleinberg in Swartland, where schist-rich soils and challenging conditions produce grapes with exceptional character. Porseleinberg’s goal is not to produce an accessible wine, but to capture the essence of this unique terroir as purely as possible. The result is a powerful, structured Syrah with impressive depth and great aging potential.
The Chocolate Block
The Chocolate Block was created to produce a modern, accessible, and distinctive South African blend. With Syrah as its foundation, the wine is blended annually from various grape varieties and vineyards, with a focus on balance and drinking pleasure. The wine combines ripe fruit, spice, and smoothness. The success of this wine has played a significant role in the global recognition of South African quality wine.
The Wolftrap
The Wolftrap is inspired by a local legend from Franschhoek, in which settlers are said to have built wolf pits to protect their livestock. The line reflects that pioneering spirit and focuses on approachable, characterful wines made to be enjoyed. Rhône-inspired blends form the foundation of the range, offering plenty of fruit, spice, and excellent value for the price. The Wolftrap demonstrates that Boekenhoutskloof can produce wines with a distinct identity and a compelling story even outside the premium segment.
Wines of Boekenhoutskloof
The story of Boekenhoutskloof
Terroir above all else
At Boekenhoutskloof, the vineyard always takes center stage. Each wine is intended to be a true expression of its origin, with climate, soil, and location taking precedence over a predetermined winemaking formula. From Franschhoek to Swartland and Hemel-en-Aarde, it’s all about capturing a place’s unique identity in the glass.
Uncompromising quality
Over the years, Boekenhoutskloof has built a reputation as one of South Africa’s most prestigious wineries. That status is based on rigorous selection, meticulous vineyard management, and a constant focus on quality. Every wine, from the iconic Boekenhoutskloof labels to The Chocolate Block, must meet the same high standard.
Pioneering spirit
Under the leadership of Marc Kent, Boekenhoutskloof has continually evolved by exploring new regions, vineyards, and opportunities. Projects such as Porseleinberg, Goldmine, and Cap Maritime were born out of the ambition to further explore the exceptional potential of South African wine and showcase it to the world.
Authenticity
Boekenhoutskloof does not follow trends but remains true to its own vision. The wines are crafted with respect for the grape, the terroir, and tradition, with character and origin always taking precedence over commercial taste profiles. As a result, every wine has a distinct identity and its own story.