Chenin Blanc: The Shape-Shifter of White Wine
Chenin Blanc might be the most versatile white grape you’re not drinking enough of.
Despite its French roots, over 55% of all Chenin Blanc in the world is grown in South Africa, with just 30% still found in France—its original home in the Loire Valley. This grape is a true chameleon: bone dry or lusciously sweet, still or sparkling, light and zingy or rich and creamy. But no matter the style, high, refreshing acidity is always part of the package.
If you love the crispness of Riesling and the body of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc is your sweet spot.
What’s It Taste Like?
Chenin Blanc’s flavour profile changes with its style, but here’s a general cheat sheet:
Dry styles: Quince, yellow apple, pear, chamomile, a hint of honey
Sweet & noble rot styles: Ripe pineapple, orange peel, dried chamomile, honeyed richness
Sparkling styles: Green apple, citrus, brioche, bright acidity
France: Where It All Began
Chenin Blanc is native to France’s Loire Valley, where it’s used to make everything from crisp sparklers to age-worthy sweet wines. In regions like Vouvray, Anjou-Saumur, and Savennieres, climate and soil will dramatically influence the final wine, so one grape can yield different results.
Vouvray
This cooler area produces everything from dry to lusciously sweet Chenin Blanc, depending on the vintage. Wines are usually light to medium-bodied with fresh fruit and floral notes, and are rarely oaked.
Saumur & Anjou
Located west of Vouvray, these regions have similar climates.
Saumur is known for sparkling Chenin Blanc made in the traditional method.
Anjou produces more dry whites. Some of these whites are matured in oak for a richer, rounder profile.
Savennieres & Coteaux du Layon
West of Anjou-Saumur, these areas have warmer, drier climates.
Savennieres makes dry, full-bodied Chenin Blanc that can age for decades.
Coteaux du Layon is famed for its sweet wines, especially from Quarts de Chaume and Bonnezeaux, where noble rot thrives and creates world-class dessert wines.
Crémant de Loire
Sparkling Chenin Blanc from across the Loire (especially Saumur) is made in the traditional method (like Champagne), offering green apple, citrus, and brioche notes with lively bubbles.
South Africa: The Modern Chenin Powerhouse
South Africa has embraced Chenin Blanc in a big way—it’s the most planted grape in the country (of any colour!).
Entry-level bottles are fresh, fruity, and easy to drink, often showcasing stone fruit and apple flavours.
More serious examples—especially from old bush vines—offer depth, complexity, and creamy texture.
Oak-aged styles can deliver toasty, nutty richness while maintaining acidity.
This is where Chenin’s chameleon character really shines. You'll find sweet and dry wines, still and sparkling, and even some fortified styles used as a base for spirits.
Food Pairing Ideas
Because of its high acidity and mix of orchard fruit and honeyed notes, Chenin Blanc is super food-friendly:
Dry styles: Great with dishes that have a sweet-and-sour element (think pork belly with apple, or Vietnamese cuisine)
Oaked versions: Perfect for roast chicken, turkey, or creamy pasta. This is my go-to pick for Thanksgiving dinner.
Sweet styles: Try with soft cheeses, paté, or fruit-based desserts
Sparkling: A salty snack's best friend—pair with chips, popcorn, or salted nuts
Why You Should Drink More Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc is endlessly versatile, refreshingly food-friendly, and often an amazing value, especially from South Africa. Whether you're into lean and zesty or rich and honeyed, this grape has something for you—and it ages beautifully too.
If you're stuck in a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio rut, Chenin Blanc is your breakout bottle.