Chenin Blanc grape variety

Chenin Blanc is characterised by its extraordinary versatility: It ranges from dry and fresh to noble sweet or sparkling. It is characterised by its lively acidity, aromas of apple, pear or quince and - depending on its origin - mineral, floral or exotic nuances.

The origins of the grape variety lie in the French Loire Valley, where Chenin Blanc has been cultivated since the 9th century. Today, the grape can also be found in South Africa, where it has become the most important white variety under the name "Steen", as well as in the USA, Australia and New Zealand.

The flavour of Chenin Blanc is varied - from crisp and fresh to full-bodied and honey-sweet. It is characterised by a lively acidity, fruity notes and an elegant balance between freshness and depth.

Dry Chenin Blanc: Ideal with fish, seafood, sushi or goat's cheese
Semi-dry Chenin Blanc: Harmonises with Asian cuisine, poultry and light curries
Sweet Chenin Blanc: Goes perfectly with desserts with apricots, pears or almonds as well as blue cheese.

Chenin Blanc is known for its aromatic diversity. Typical flavours are
- Apple, pear and quince
- Citrus and exotic fruits such as pineapple and mango
- Floral notes of acacia and jasmine
- With maturity: honey, nuts and brioche

Chenin Blanc is best served chilled at 8-10 °C. This allows the fresh fruit flavours to develop optimally. Sweeter varieties can be served a little warmer to reveal their aromatic depth.

- Young, fresh Chenin Blancs: 2-3 years
- High-quality Chenin Blancs from the Loire or South Africa: 10 years and longer, as the acid structure makes the wine particularly long-lasting.

- France (Loire): Domaine Huet, Domaine des Baumard, Château de Fesles
- South Africa: Ken Forrester, Mullineux, Raats Family Wines
- International: Paxton (Australia), Chappellet (USA)

Chenin Blanc is unique in its range: hardly any other grape variety produces so many styles - from sparkling to noble sweet, from young to ageable for decades. Its lively acidity makes it both fresh and capable of ageing.

Yes, and that's what makes it so exciting
- Loire (France): Elegance, minerality, often with notes of quince and honey
- South Africa: Fruitier, riper, often with tropical flavours and a strong structure
- New World (e.g. California, Australia): Mostly fruit-driven, soft and approachable.