Is Chenin Blanc a red or white grape variety?

Chenin Blanc is a white wine grape variety. Sensium documents its structure, aromas, and confusion signals for blind tasting.

What does Chenin Blanc smell and taste like?

Signature aromas of Chenin Blanc include quince, apple and wool. Structural profile: Medium body, High acidity, Medium alcohol.

What is Chenin Blanc most often confused with in blind tasting?

Chenin Blanc is most commonly confused with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Sensium's Compare view leads with the decisive cues that resolve each call.

Where is Chenin Blanc grown?

Classic regions for Chenin Blanc include Vouvray, Savennieres, Swartland and Stellenbosch.

Chenin Blanc — varietal dossier

Structural pillars

Acidity

High

Body

Medium

Alcohol

Medium

Color intensity

Pale

Aromatic intensity

Medium(+)

Recognition cues

First checks

Check for high acidity with waxy quince/apple cues.
Assess texture as firmer and more waxy than Sauvignon Blanc.

Confidence signals

Quince and wool markers
High acidity with medium body

Aromas

Signature

quinceapplewool

Common

chamomilehoneypear

Occasional

beeswax

Commonly confused with

Classic anchors

Classic regions: Vouvray · Savennieres · Swartland · Stellenbosch
Classic styles: High-acid dry Loire white · Off-dry to sweet waxy textured white
Style examples: Vouvray Sec · Savennieres

Common questions

Is Chenin Blanc a red or white grape variety?: Chenin Blanc is a white wine grape variety. Sensium documents its structure, aromas, and confusion signals for blind tasting.
What does Chenin Blanc smell and taste like?: Signature aromas of Chenin Blanc include quince, apple and wool. Structural profile: Medium body, High acidity, Medium alcohol.
What is Chenin Blanc most often confused with in blind tasting?: Chenin Blanc is most commonly confused with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Sensium's Compare view leads with the decisive cues that resolve each call.
Where is Chenin Blanc grown?: Classic regions for Chenin Blanc include Vouvray, Savennieres, Swartland and Stellenbosch.