Chenin
The chameleon of the Loire Valley, chenin is the most versatile white grape variety there is: dry, off-dry, medium-sweet, sweet or sparkling. Its vibrant acidity gives it exceptional longevity, from Vouvray to the great sweet wines of the Layon.
The aromatic profile
Young and dry, chenin plays on green apple, quince, pear and white flowers, with a lively, mineral palate (flint). In its medium-sweet or sweet versions, it takes on honey, candied fruits, dried apricot and beeswax. Its signature, in every case, is a frank acidity that keeps the wine upright.
Structure and terroir
It is this high acidity that makes chenin's magic: it balances the sugar of the sweet wines and gives the dry ones remarkable ageing potential. Susceptible to noble rot, it produces the great sweet wines of the Layon, Quarts de Chaume and Bonnezeaux; on the tuffeau of Vouvray or the schist of Savennières, it yields racy, taut dry wines.
At the table and around the world
The dry wines pair with fish, seafood and creamy poultry dishes; the medium-sweet and sweet wines are sublime with foie gras, blue cheeses and fruity desserts. Outside France, chenin is the star of South Africa, where it is the most widely planted white grape variety.
Key facts
Where to taste Chenin?
This variety is part of the blend in these appellations:
Bouteilles de Chenin en vente
3 annonce(s) entre particuliers en ce moment — à partir de 126 €
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