Chenin Blanc

Chenin Blanc is the most widely planted white wine grape variety in France's Loire Valley, producing high quality wines particularly in the regions of Anjou, Savennières and Vouvray, and is also grown in Limoux, south of Toulouse, where it is used as a blending variety.

Outside of France, South Africa is an important producer, where Protestant Huguenots fled to the Netherlands and other countries after the Edict of Nantes was abolished by Louis XIV in 1685, and are said to have transported Chenin Blanc across the sea. South African Chenin Blanc is highly regarded. It is also grown in California and Washington in the United States, as well as Australia and New Zealand.

Chenin Blanc grapes are small, thick-skinned and golden yellow when ripened. They can adapt to a wide range of climates. Due to its high acidity, it grows well in cool climates, but prefers cool climates. It has a strong vitality as a plant and can adapt to various soil conditions, and these characteristics are easily expressed in the grapes. In particular, it produces better aromas and flavors in limestone, clay, and sandy soils.

By adjusting the harvest time, it is possible to produce a wide range of wine styles, from dry to sweet to sparkling wine. It is also sensitive to botrytis, so you need to be extremely careful if you want to avoid it. On the other hand, if the conditions are right, you can also produce a wonderful botrytis wine.

Chenin Blanc wines are characterized by a wide variety of styles, as they are a variety that easily reflects the characteristics of the soil and the way it is made. Dry wines have a distinctive freshness that makes the most of their acidity, and you can feel the fruitiness of quince, pear, lemon, and the aroma of vervain (lemon verbena) and chamomile. They also have a mineral feel that reflects the characteristics of the soil.

Sweet wines have a rich flavor of honey, apricot, and tropical fruits, and a rich, smooth mouthfeel. Sparkling wines, like dry white wines, have a refreshing acidity and light bubbles. Overall, they are characterized by high acidity and a balanced taste, and when made for aging, the more complex flavors become available as they age.

There are many different styles of Chenin Blanc, so it is important to choose a food that matches the characteristics of the wine. Generally, dry Chenin Blanc makes good use of its lemon-like acidity and goes well with seafood and poultry salads and grilled seafood. Sushi is also a good choice for Japanese cuisine. Sweet Chenin Blanc makes interesting combinations with liver pâté, foie gras, blue cheese, and spicy Asian dishes. It also goes well with sautéed fish and poultry dishes in creamy sauces, making good use of its acidity.