Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc
1. What It Is
Chenin Blanc is a white grape that can make almost every kind of wine — dry, sweet, sparkling, and everything in between.
It first became famous in the Loire Valley of France and is now one of the most important grapes in South Africa.
No matter the style, Chenin Blanc wines are known for their bright acidity, fruit flavours, and ability to age beautifully.
2. What It Tastes Like
Chenin Blanc has flavours of apple, pear, and citrus when young, and develops notes of honey, toast, and wax as it ages.
Dry versions taste fresh and crisp, while sweeter styles are richer and fuller.
Sparkling Chenins are zesty and refreshing, often with hints of green apple and lemon.
3. Where It Grows
| Region | Country | Typical Style |
|---|---|---|
| Loire Valley | France | Dry and sweet wines with apple, honey, and mineral notes |
| Swartland & Stellenbosch | South Africa | Dry, textured wines with stone fruit and spice; some rich and ripe styles |
| California (Clarksburg) | USA | Dry, fruity wines with peach and melon flavours |
| Australia / New Zealand | Australia & NZ | Dry, crisp wines with citrus and pear notes |
South Africa now grows more Chenin Blanc than anywhere else in the world, much of it from old, dry-farmed bush vines.
4. How It’s Made
Chenin Blanc can be made in many different ways:
- Dry wines are fermented in stainless steel or old oak barrels to keep them fresh.
- Sweet wines come from grapes picked late or affected by noble rot, which adds honeyed flavours.
- Sparkling wines (like Crémant de Loire in France or Cap Classique in South Africa) are made using the traditional method, the same used for Champagne.
Because the grape has such high acidity, winemakers can use it for all these styles while keeping balance and freshness.
5. Famous Producers
France: Domaine Huet • Nicolas Joly • Baumard
South Africa: Alheit • Mullineux • Ken Forrester • Raats
Elsewhere: Dry Creek Vineyard (California) • Millton (New Zealand)
6. Why It’s Special
- Can make both dry and sweet wines that age for decades.
- Grows well in cool and warm climates.
- Keeps fresh acidity, giving wines brightness and life.
- Reflects its terroir — limestone gives freshness, granite adds richness.
- Loved by winemakers for its versatility and expression of place.
7. Summary
Chenin Blanc is a truly adaptable grape, producing wines that range from crisp and refreshing to sweet and golden.
It shines in both France’s Loire Valley and South Africa, showing different sides of its character.
Whatever the style, Chenin Blanc always offers freshness, flavour, and remarkable ageing potential.
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