Although it is a widely planted international grape variety, Chenin Blanc is surprisingly not a very common everyday go-to wine here in the US. Producing light, fresh wines with mild flavors and pleasing aromas, this grape is one that can be enjoyed by aficionados and casual wine drinkers alike. No pungent acquired tastes to contend with here. Additionally, Chenin Blanc lends itself to diverse styles of wine from dry, crisp whites to sweet dessert wines to elegant, effervescent bubblies, so there is sure to be at least one Chenin Blanc based wine to please every palate.
Indigenous to France, this venerable grape rose to prominence in the cool climate of the Loire Valley. Its particularly high acid content allows it to flourish in the chilly weather where other grapes cannot properly develop. It is the driving force behind the critically acclaimed dry white wines of Savennieres and Vouvray, as well as some of the luxurious sweet dessert wines of the Sauternes. Flavors of green apple and an alluring earthy minerality dominate the profiles of these wines, while those that are aged can even take on honeyed notes or hints of savory pears.
From France, Chenin Blanc traveled to other notable cool climate, wine growing regions with moderate success. In Argentina, it is a popular addition to some of the country’s famed white wines based on the Torrontes grape varieties. What is particularly exceptional, though, is that this grape has also made quite a name for itself in some very warm weather, New World locations as well. Typically, grape varieties that thrive in a certain type of climate will underperform and struggle in vastly different growing conditions. Chenin Blanc, though, defies this norm as it can be found in numerous domestic white wine blends from the west coast of the US where it is grown in large quantities in California’s Central Valley, an area that is strikingly hot and dry.
If Chenin Blanc’s prosperity in California isn’t impressive enough, the adaptability of this grape is clearly evident in its illustrious scorecard in some of the more challenging regions in South Africa. It flourishes in the less than hospitable conditions next to traditional warm weather grapes varieties such as Syrah and Pinotage. Locally known as Steen, South African Chenin Blancs showcase decidedly more tropical citrus and melon flavors, as opposed to their earthy Old World brethren. Steen wines are so well accomplished throughout South Africa that nearly one third of all the vines planted in the country are Steen. While the vines are prevalent, they do encounter difficulties with the harsh conditions and, as a result, produce smaller yields of grapes. However, this is actually beneficial as fewer grapes equals more concentrated sugars and deeper, more flavorful wines.
So, the next time you are looking for a nice afternoon drink by the pool or a stellar light selection to start the evening meal with, think Chenin Blanc. These remarkable wines are a delightful departure from the typical Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Grigios that dominate the market. Additionally, Chenin Blanc’s enigmatic status means hidden gems of good value are waiting to be discovered. Take advantage and try some Chenin Blanc tonight.
