There’s a South African wine brand called ‘The Chocolate Block’, which people swear tastes of chocolate, but it doesn’t, it’s just a classic demonstration of the power of suggestion. This wine, on the other hand, really does taste of chocolate, and it can’t be suggestibility at work, because it doesn’t taste remotely of blood, which makes up half of the wine’s name. Without wishing to sound like a Marks & Spencer’s voiceover, this doesn’t just taste of chocolate, this tastes of molten Venezuelan chocolate, folding its way through blackberry pie-filling, orange fondant and vanilla cream. It’s indulgent, hedonistic and ridiculously delicious. 14.5% alc. Drink now-2025.

Press review:

Decanter: “South African wine specialist and Master of Wine, Richard Kelley, sourced this Cape blend from Glen Carlou. It does exactly what is says on the can – sweet milk chocolate and vanilla, plus concentrated blackberry and raspberry jam. It’s no gimmick though; there’s enough ripe tannins to stand up to rump steak too.“ 93 points

Jancis Robinson MW: “61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Shiraz. Lively crimson. Yes, I can taste both varieties and they are utterly frank and correct and have integrated a bit. Really good and long!” 16.5 points