CHENIN BLANC
Crisp, Complex, And Surprisingly Versatile
Chenin Blanc is a white grape variety that’s remarkably adaptable in style—ranging from bone-dry and mineral to lusciously sweet or even sparkling. Its hallmark is bright acidity, which serves as the backbone for wines of structure, complexity, and aging potential. Whether from the Loire Valley or South Africa, Chenin Blanc offers something for every palate.
Key Characteristics
Chenin Blanc offers crisp acidity, textured body, and a wide range of expressions—from mineral-driven dry wines to honeyed, age-worthy sweet styles.
Style
Still, sparkling, or sweet
Body
Light to medium
Acidity
High
Primary Grapes
Chenin Blanc
Typical Flavors
Green apple, pear, quince, honey, chamomile, lanolin, lemon curd, wet stone
Origin & History
Chenin Blanc originates from France’s Loire Valley, where it has been cultivated since at least the 9th century. Its versatility has made it a staple of both dry and sweet wines in the region. In the 20th century, South Africa adopted the grape (locally known as “Steen”) and became the world’s largest producer, giving it new life as both a high-quality varietal and a component in blends.
How It’s Made
Chenin Blanc can be vinified in stainless steel, oak barrels, or amphora depending on the intended style. Dry versions often undergo cold fermentation to preserve fresh aromatics, while sweet wines may come from botrytized or late-harvest grapes. Sparkling styles are produced using both traditional and tank methods.
Notable Regions
Chenin Blanc shines in a wide range of climates and soils.
France
Loire Valley
Vouvray, Savennières, Anjou
Dry, off-dry, and sweet styles
South Africa
Stellenbosch
Swartland
Often dry, textural, and oak-influenced
USA
California
Fresh, fruity styles or blends
Australia
Typically used in blends or light, dry styles
Food Pairings
Its acidity and wide stylistic range make Chenin Blanc a food-friendly companion:
Appetizers
Crab cakes, goat cheese, deviled eggs
Seafood
Seared scallops, trout almondine, sushi
Poultry
Roast chicken, turkey with herbs, duck à l’orange
Spicy Dishes
Thai green curry, Moroccan tagine, Indian butter chicken
Cheeses
Aged gouda, goat cheese, Comté
How to Serve It
Glassware
White wine glass to enhance aromatics
Temperature
45–50°F (7–10°C)
Storage
Upright, in a cool, dark place; fine examples can age beautifully
Fun Fact
Chenin Blanc is one of the few white grapes capable of producing world-class wines in every style; dry, sweet, sparkling, and fortified.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Chenin Blanc and Loire Valley whites, from classic French terroirs to vibrant New World expressions.
Champalou
A trusted name in Vouvray, known for elegant, approachable Chenin Blancs that balance fruit, florality, and finesse.
Domaine du Salvard
A Loire Valley staple producing crisp, mineral-driven whites like Cheverny Blanc with vibrant freshness and charm.
Domaine Huet
A benchmark Vouvray estate crafting iconic Chenin Blancs with remarkable structure, purity, and aging potential.
Protea
A modern South African label offering bright, fruit-forward Chenin Blanc with broad appeal and a stylish presentation.
Recommended Pours
Champalou - Vouvray 2023 — A fresh and floral Vouvray with crisp apple, honeyed notes, and a silky, off-dry finish.
Domaine Du Salvard - Cheverny Blanc 2023 — A zesty Loire blend led by Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, with citrus, green herbs, and a mineral edge.
Domaine Huet - Le Haut Lieu Vouvray Sec 2022 — A legendary dry Vouvray showing precision, white peach, chalky minerality, and long aging potential.
Protea - Chenin Blanc 2023 — A bright and easy-drinking South African Chenin with tropical fruit, citrus zest, and a clean, refreshing finish.