Grape to Meet You: Chenin Blanc
The best way to get to know Chenin Blanc is to familiarize yourself with the many roles i.e. wines that are produced on Chenin Blanc’s home stage, running the gamut from bright acidity to luscious fruit.
Start with a plain, unadulterated Loire Chenin Blanc labeled Anjou, Saumur, or Vouvray for a ‘textbook’ palate profile of Chenin Blanc’s character – the proverbial star without makeup. Then compare your Loire Chenin Blanc with one from South Africa. If you select a South African Chenin that is made from “bush vines”, this is a good indicator that the yields are lower producing a wine with more flavor. Do you notice less flavor and intensity in the South African counterpart?
Then on to a demi-sec (semi-dry) Vouvray or Montlouis-Sur-Loire for a richer, off-dry taste with still ample raciness.
Now on to a sweet Chenin Blanc such as a Bonnezeaux, Quarts de Chaume or a Montlouis-sur-Loire Moelleux – to name a few.
Last but certainly not least, treat yourself to some bubbly members of the Chenin Blanc family of wine: Anjou Mousseux, Touraine Mousseux, Vouray, Montlouis-Sur-Loire, Anjou Coteaux de la Loire.
All suggested labels are wines made from 100% Chenin Blanc.
the Singing Sommelière 