We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
Originating in France's Loire Valley, Chenin Blanc is a grape that tells a tale of adaptability and versatility. In its homeland, it thrives in regions like Anjou and Vouvray, presenting wines that can vary from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. It's a grape that, while deeply rooted in French traditions, has found a second home in South Africa's winelands, where it's often referred to as "Steen." The grape's ability to reflect its terroir means that the same vine can produce wines with a vast spectrum of flavors, from green apple and quince to honey and lanolin. Chenin Blanc wines often possess a bright acidity, making them excellent candidates for aging. As the years pass, these wines can develop rich, complex profiles with notes of baked apple, almond, and even beeswax. Truly, Chenin Blanc is a testament to the wonders that can be achieved when nature, terroir, and winemaker come together in perfect harmony.
Chenin Blanc wine is a white varietal wine produced from the Chenin Blanc grape, which originates from the Loire Valley in France. Recognized for its high acidity and versatility, Chenin Blanc can be crafted into a range of wine styles – from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, and even sparkling wines. Depending on where it's grown and how it's made, Chenin Blanc can exhibit a spectrum of flavors. In its youth, it often showcases fresh apple, quince, and pear notes, while with age or in richer styles, flavors of honey, ginger, and beeswax become more pronounced. The grape's natural acidity ensures that even in its sweetest forms, Chenin Blanc retains a crisp, refreshing character, making it a beloved choice for many wine enthusiasts.
The Loire Valley in France is the birthplace of Chenin Blanc and remains its most iconic region. Within the Loire, areas like Vouvray, Anjou, and Savennières have gained global acclaim for producing some of the world's best Chenin Blanc wines, each offering a unique expression of the grape. However, South Africa has also emerged as a major player in the Chenin Blanc scene. The Western Cape, particularly regions like Stellenbosch and Swartland, is producing exceptional Chenin Blanc wines that balance richness with vibrancy, earning high praise on the international stage.
Chenin Blanc's popularity has seen a renaissance in recent years, with certain bottles standing out on the global stage. In the Loire Valley, wines from producers like Domaine Huet in Vouvray and Nicolas Joly in Savennières have set benchmarks for the varietal. Their wines, often with impressive aging potential, are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. In South Africa, brands such as Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, Alheit Vineyards, and David & Nadia are making waves with their Chenin Blanc expressions, showcasing the potential and diversity of the grape in the New World.
Finding value in Chenin Blanc is a delightful endeavor, given the grape's widespread cultivation and the range of styles in which it's produced. The Loire Valley, despite housing some iconic producers, also offers numerous bottles that are exceptional for their price point. Similarly, South Africa's Chenin Blanc landscape is dotted with value-driven wines that don't compromise on quality. Brands like Ken Forrester, Badenhorst Family Wines, and Raats Family Wines consistently offer Chenin Blanc wines that are both affordable and expressive, making them ideal choices for those seeking quality without breaking the bank.
Chenin Blanc's versatility in the glass translates to its pairing potential on the plate. For dry Chenin Blanc wines, think of dishes like grilled chicken, seafood salads, or sushi. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of these foods, creating a harmonious balance. When dealing with off-dry or slightly sweeter styles, spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian curries, work wonderfully. The sweetness of the wine complements the heat of the dish. For richer, oak-aged Chenin Blanc, roasted poultry or creamy pasta dishes are ideal. And for those indulging in sweet, dessert-style Chenin Blanc wines, blue cheeses or fruit-based desserts like tarte Tatin can be a sublime match.
France
Italy
Spain
Australia
New-Zealand
Germany
Austria
Portugal
South-Africa
Greece
USA