Chenin Blanc: A Symphony of Styles in a Single Grape

Immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Chenin Blanc, a white grape variety celebrated for its exceptional versatility and remarkable adaptability. Chenin Blanc can yield an extraordinary array of wines, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, still to sparkling, and everything in between. It is this flexibility, coupled with an expressive flavour profile, that truly sets Chenin Blanc apart.

A Brief History

Chenin Blanc’s origins lie in the Loire Valley of France, where records of its cultivation date back to the 9th century. Historically appreciated for its high acidity and suitability for a wide range of wine styles, Chenin Blanc was brought to South Africa in the mid-17th century, where it flourished and today constitutes a significant part of the country’s wine production, known locally as “Steen”.

Characteristics

Chenin Blanc is a vigorous vine that buds early and ripens late, suited to a variety of soil types. The grape’s natural high acidity is a defining characteristic, making it suitable for producing everything from sparkling wines to well-balanced sweet wines. Its ability to reflect the terroir it’s grown in adds another layer of complexity and allure to this versatile variety.

Flavour Profile

Chenin Blanc’s flavour profile can vary dramatically depending on where it is grown and how it is made. It often exhibits notes of apple, pear, and quince, along with floral, honey, and nutty characteristics. In warmer climates or when botrytis (noble rot) is present, it can develop deeper, richer flavours of tropical fruit, apricot, and honeycomb.

Different Styles of Wine

The range of wine styles produced from Chenin Blanc is broad. In the Loire Valley, it is used to produce everything from sparkling wines in Vouvray and Saumur, dry, mineral-driven wines in Savennières, to sweet, botrytised wines in regions like Coteaux du Layon and Quarts de Chaume. In South Africa, Chenin Blanc is primarily produced as a still wine, ranging from crisp and unoaked to full-bodied and oak-aged.

Wine Making and Maturation Options

Winemaking techniques for Chenin Blanc range from the use of stainless steel for fresh, unoaked styles to the use of oak barrels for maturation, adding complexity and texture. Some winemakers choose to employ malolactic fermentation to soften the wine’s natural acidity, while others prefer to retain its crispness. The grape’s high acidity also makes it suitable for late-harvest sweet wines.

Important Regions

Chenin Blanc is most famously grown in the Loire Valley of France and South Africa. In the Loire, areas such as Anjou, Saumur, and Touraine (home to Vouvray) are particularly noteworthy. South Africa has the highest acreage of Chenin Blanc in the world, particularly in regions like Stellenbosch and Swartland. Other New World regions, such as California and Australia, have also started to explore the grape’s potential.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Chenin Blanc’s high acidity and versatile flavour profile make it an excellent companion to a wide variety of dishes. Dry Chenin Blanc pairs well with seafood, chicken, sushi, and salads. The richer, fuller-bodied styles can stand up to spicy cuisines, creamy sauces, and pâtés. Sweet Chenin Blanc wines are an excellent match for blue cheese and a variety of desserts.

Delving into the world of Chenin Blanc offers a wine adventure brimming with diversity, complexity, and an unexpected yet delightful surprise at every turn. From the historical vineyards of the Loire Valley to the sun-kissed landscapes of South Africa, Chenin Blanc continues to showcase its impressive versatility, expressing the nuances of its terroir with grace and finesse. So, whether you’re sipping on a crisp, dry Chenin or savouring a luscious, sweet variant, you’re experiencing a grape variety that truly encapsulates the wonders of the wine world. To the ongoing journey with Chenin Blanc – may it continue to charm and captivate us with its myriad styles. Cheers to Chenin Blanc, the adaptable virtuoso of the vine!