Chenin Blanc
White wine grape variety
Also known as Steen, Pineau de la Loire
Chenin Blanc is a white wine grape with signature aromas of quince, apple, wool. Structure: Medium body, High acidity, Medium alcohol. Often confused with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Recognition cues
First checks
- Check for high acidity with waxy quince/apple cues.
- Assess texture as firmer and more waxy than Sauvignon Blanc (#10790).
Confidence signals
- Quince and wool markers
- High acidity with medium body
Aromas
Signature
Common
Occasional
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
Common questions
Is Chenin Blanc a red or white grape variety?
Chenin Blanc is a white wine grape variety.
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 blind-tasting cues distinguish Chenin Blanc?
Documented tells for Chenin Blanc: Check for high acidity with waxy quince/apple cues. and Assess texture as firmer and more waxy than Sauvignon Blanc (#10790)..
What is Chenin Blanc most often confused with in blind tasting?
Chenin Blanc is most commonly confused with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Resolve the call with structure and signature aromas.
Where is Chenin Blanc grown?
Classic regions for Chenin Blanc include Vouvray, Savennieres, Swartland and Stellenbosch.