17 June is #DrinkChenin day – here’s the lowdown on this popular varietal

Chenin Blanc

Pronounced “Shen-in blonc”

Chenin Blanc, often referred to as “Steen”, is South Africa’s most widely cultivated vine - about a fifth of all plantings! In fact, South Africa is the largest producer of Chenin Blanc in the world. For many years it was regarded as unique to South Africa, and it was only in the 1960’s when experts were able to connect the “Steen” wine to Chenin Blanc. Chenin is believed to have been brought to South Africa by Jan van Riebeeck in the 17th century.

Chenin Blanc actually originated from the Loire Valley region in France. Other popular Chenin regions include France, Canada and Argentina, but it is also planted in New Zealand, Australia and Chile.

Chenin Blanc is made in a variety of styles; from bone-dry to full-sweet, known for its versatility and high yields in the vineyard. The two main styles are “fresh” Chenin and oaked Chenin.

Cool climate Chenin Blanc wine is similar to Sauvignon Blanc, while warm climate Chenin Blanc wines are closer to Chardonnay in style. It is usually a clear wine (when young), becoming straw yellow when aged or wooded.

Flavours & aromas: Fresh Chenin has flavours of vibrant tropical fruits and melon with a zest and crisp finish. It also has aromas of seductive fresh fruit and delicate floral aromas. Oaked Chenin are fuller, more complex and powerful wines, with a richer mouth feel. Honey and almond features can develop with age.

Serving temperature & ageing potential: As a white wine, it is best served cool, between 12 - 14˚C. Chenin rewards lengthy bottle maturation, which deepens the colour and adds honey and nuts to the palette of flavours, making it an ideal wine to age.

Food & Wine: Chenin is thought to pair best with foods that have a sweet and sour element as well as foods such as sushi, roast chicken, trout, creamy desserts or fruit salads.

Fun fact: Chenin Blanc is also known as:

• Steen

• Bonnezeaux

• Pineau de la Loire

• Savennieres

Let's raise our glasses to celebrate this iconic grape on this special day!

#CheninBlanc #DiVineWine #SouthAfricanWine