Beverage
Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc is a high-acid Loire and South African white that shifts from bone-dry Savennières to honeyed Coteaux du Layon and sparkling Vouvray without losing apple, quince, chamomile, and wet-wool minerality. It takes well to lees ageing and oak when the fruit is concentrated, yet stainless-steel versions stay steely and pure. South Africa’s large plantings yield both simple everyday bottles and serious, old-vine dry Chenins with honeyed depth. In cooking, dry Chenin lifts pork, chicken fricassée, and creamy vegetable soups; its acidity balances butter better than many softer whites. Sweet styles partner blue cheese or fruit tarts rather than pan work. Deglaze with dry Chenin for apple-glazed pork or mussel pots—the quince note echoes orchard fruit in the dish.
Also known as: Chenin Blanc, Steen / Chenin
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History
Chenin took hold in the Loire Valley as a versatile white for still, sweet, and sparkling wine.
Cape plantings made Chenin (Steen) South Africa’s workhorse white grape for table wine and brandy base.
Old-vine Cape Chenin gained critical attention as a premium dry white beyond bulk production.