Wine Encyclopedia/White Grapes/Chenin Blanc
White WineLoire Valley, France

Chenin Blanc

Also known as: Steen (South Africa), Pineau de la Loire

One of the world's most versatile grapes, Chenin Blanc can make everything from bone-dry to lusciously sweet wines, plus world-class sparkling. Its high acidity allows exceptional aging.

BodyMedium
AcidityHigh
SweetnessDry
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South Africa has more Chenin Blanc planted than any country in the world, more than twice as much as France.

๐Ÿ‘ƒ Tasting Notes

Primary Flavors

ApplePearQuince

Secondary Flavors

HoneyGingerChamomileLanolin

Aromas

HoneysuckleWet woolBeeswax

๐ŸŒ Famous Wine Regions

Vouvray

France
Versatility

Diverse styles from dry to sweet to sparkling

Savenniรจres

France
Ageworthy dry wines

Powerful, mineral dry wines that age decades

Stellenbosch

South Africa
New World excellence

Old bush vines, rich textured wines

Swartland

South Africa
Artisanal old vines

Natural winemaking revolution

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Perfect Food Pairings

Pork with apples
Thai cuisine
Soft cheeses
Roast chicken
Apple tart

๐ŸŒก๏ธ Serving Guide

Temperature

8-12ยฐC (46-54ยฐF)

Glass Type

White wine glass

โณ Aging Potential

5-50+ years for sweet wines

All Grape Varieties