Chenin Blanc
Originally from Loire Valley, France
One of the most versatile grapes in wine. In the Loire it produces bone-dry Savennières, gently sparkling Vouvray, and intensely sweet Quarts de Chaume. In South Africa it makes honest, food-friendly everyday whites. The natural acidity is so high that it can handle almost any level of sweetness.
Chenin Blanc is a versatile white grape variety known for its high acidity and ability to produce wines ranging from dry to sweet, often displaying notes of apple, quince, honey, and floral aromas.
Taste profile
Where Chenin Blanc is grown
Food pairings
Notable Chenin Blanc wines
Chenin Blanc Pearl
White WineDeluxe · Paarl
The Hermit
White WineTestalonga · Swartland
Drink 2023–2028
CREMANT
SparklingDomaine de la Rouletiere · Loire Valley
Chenin Blanc
WhiteLe Grange Tiphaine · Loire Valley
91 Wine Enthusiast
Drink 2021–2030
Similar grapes
Chenin Blanc FAQ
What is Chenin Blanc?
Chenin Blanc is a white wine grape that originated in Loire Valley, France. One of the most versatile grapes in wine. In the Loire it produces bone-dry Savennières, gently sparkling Vouvray, and intensely sweet Quarts de Chaume. In South Africa it makes honest, food-friendly everyday whites. The natural acidity is so high that it can handle almost any level of sweetness.
What are the characteristics of Chenin Blanc?
On the palate it reads as medium-bodied, high acidity. Structurally: body 3/5, acidity 5/5, tannin 1/5, sweetness 2/5.
Is Chenin Blanc sweet?
Chenin Blanc is typically dry, though you will come across off-dry and properly sweet bottlings if you go looking.
What does Chenin Blanc taste like?
Think of it as a medium-bodied white. One of the most versatile grapes in wine. In the Loire it produces bone-dry Savennières, gently sparkling Vouvray, and intensely sweet Quarts de Chaume. In South Africa it makes honest, food-friendly everyday whites. The natural acidity is so high that it can handle almost any level of sweetness.
What food pairs with Chenin Blanc?
Reach for Chenin Blanc alongside Goat's cheese, River fish, Chicken in cream sauce, Apple tart.
Where is Chenin Blanc grown?
You will find its finest expressions in Vouvray, Loire, Savennières, Loire, Quarts de Chaume, Swartland, South Africa, Stellenbosch.
What grapes are similar to Chenin Blanc?
If you enjoy Chenin Blanc, try Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc. Also exceptional across the sweetness range with high ageing potential. More mineral; Chenin is more honeyed.
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