How do you tell Chenin Blanc and Viognier apart in a blind tasting?

The clearest separator between Chenin Blanc and Viognier is acidity: Chenin Blanc is High while Viognier is Medium(−). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.

Is Chenin Blanc or Viognier higher in acidity?

On the WSET ladder, Chenin Blanc is High and Viognier is Medium(−) for acidity.

Are Chenin Blanc and Viognier red or white?

Chenin Blanc and Viognier are both white grape varieties.

Chenin Blanc vs Viognier — how to tell them apart

Structure compared

Structure compared	Chenin Blanc	Viognier
Acidity	High	Medium(−)
Body	Medium	Medium(+)
Alcohol	Medium	High
Color intensity	Pale	Medium
Aromatic intensity	Medium(+)	Pronounced

Signature aromas

Chenin Blanc

quinceapplewool

Viognier

apricotpeachhoneysuckle

Common questions

How do you tell Chenin Blanc and Viognier apart in a blind tasting?: The clearest separator between Chenin Blanc and Viognier is acidity: Chenin Blanc is High while Viognier is Medium(−). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Is Chenin Blanc or Viognier higher in acidity?: On the WSET ladder, Chenin Blanc is High and Viognier is Medium(−) for acidity.
Are Chenin Blanc and Viognier red or white?: Chenin Blanc and Viognier are both white grape varieties.