Chenin Blanc is an exceptionally versatile white grape from France's Loire Valley, capable of producing everything from bone-dry and sparkling wines to some of the world's great botrytized dessert wines (made using a beneficial mold that concentrates sugar and flavor in the grape). Its naturally high acidity keeps every style balanced, whether the wine is fully dry or intensely sweet. On its own the grape is fairly neutral, so it tends to reflect its vineyard site and the winemaker's choices, showing flavors from green apple and quince to honey and tropical fruit.
Also known as Pineau d'Anjou, Pineau de la Loire, Steen.
Primary flavors
Guava Honey Peach Quince
Styles
Crisp white Dessert Sparkling base
Grown in
India
Loire Valley
South Africa
Thailand
Vouvray
Brazil
California
Central Coast
Columbia Valley
Margaret River
New York
Oregon
Penedès
Santa Barbara County
Sonoma County, California
Texas
Washington
Constantia
Languedoc-Roussillon
Also try