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Chenin Blanc

From Vinopedia

Chenin Blanc (/ˈʃɛnɪn ˈblɒŋ/; French: [ʃənɛ̃ blɑ̃]) is a white grape variety originating from the Loire Valley in France, where it has been cultivated since at least the ninth century[1]. Known for its high natural acidity and versatility, it can be made into a wide range of wine styles, from sparkling and dry to sweet and botrytised[2]. Today, Chenin Blanc is planted in several wine regions worldwide, with significant acreage in South Africa, where it has become the country’s most widely grown grape[3].

History

Chenin Blanc is believed to have originated in the Anjou region of the Loire Valley, with historical references dating back to the early Middle Ages[4]. By the 15th century, it had spread to Touraine and Vouvray, becoming closely associated with these appellations[5]. The grape was introduced to South Africa in the mid-17th century, where it adapted well to the climate and soils, eventually surpassing its plantings in France[6].

Characteristics

The variety is noted for its high natural acidity, which enables longevity in both dry and sweet styles[7]. Aromas can range from fresh apple, pear, and quince in cooler climates to tropical fruit notes in warmer regions. With age, especially in sweet examples, flavours may develop into honey, lanolin, and nutty tones[8].

Geography

Chenin Blanc’s traditional home is the Loire Valley, particularly in appellations such as Vouvray, Anjou, and Saumur[9]. Outside France, South Africa is the leading producer, accounting for more than half of the world’s plantings[10]. Smaller but notable plantings exist in the United States, New Zealand, and Argentina[11].

Production

The grape’s versatility allows for a range of winemaking approaches, including sparkling wine production, dry table wines, and late-harvest or botrytised sweet wines[12]. Its high acidity supports long fermentation and ageing potential, while careful vineyard management is essential to avoid excessive yields, which can dilute flavour[13].

See also

References

  1. ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, ISBN 978-0062206367.
  2. ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
  3. ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  4. ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, ISBN 978-0062206367.
  5. ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
  6. ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  7. ↑ Stevenson, The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia, 5th ed., DK, 2011, ISBN 978-0756686840.
  8. ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
  9. ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, ISBN 978-0062206367.
  10. ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., Mitchell Beazley, 2019, ISBN 978-1784724030.
  11. ↑ Vitis International Variety Catalogue (VIVC), “Chenin Blanc”, vivc.de.
  12. ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
  13. ↑ Stevenson, The Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia, 5th ed., DK, 2011, ISBN 978-0756686840.
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