Grapes · White grape

Chenin Blanc

One of the most versatile grapes: sparkling, dry, off-dry and sweet styles. High acidity and a distinctive honey-and-wool character make it great for ageing.

Also known as: Steen (South Africa)

On the nose

Young wines (primary aromas)

  • green apple
  • quince
  • pear
  • lemon
  • chamomile
  • lanolin / wet wool

Oak & winemaking (secondary)

  • vanilla
  • toast (some modern styles)

With bottle age (tertiary)

  • honey
  • beeswax
  • dried apricot
  • toast
  • nuts

On the palate

Dry to sweet, medium body, high acidity. Apple and quince with a waxy, honeyed texture.

Tasting tip

Baked apple with honey and a slightly waxy, woolly note is the Chenin signature.

Often confused with

Riesling (more floral, petrol), Chardonnay (less acidic), Sémillon (waxy too, lower acidity).

Where it grows

  • France — Loire (Vouvray, Savennières, Anjou)
  • South Africa (Stellenbosch, Swartland)