Celebrate Drink Chenin Blanc Day on June 8th with Margaret River's Versatile White Wine
Drink Chenin Blanc Day on June 8th is the perfect occasion to savour this versatile white wine.
Read on to uncover the unique characteristics and taste profile of Margaret River's hidden gem.
What is Chenin Blanc?
Chenin Blanc (sheh-nun blonk) is a delicious white wine variety, renowned for its production in the Loire Valley of France and South Africa. This grape was first documented in France in the 1500s, introduced to South Africa in the 1600s, and reached Australia 200 years later. Today, Chenin Blanc thrives across Australia, particularly in Western Australia's Swan Valley and Margaret River, producing world-class wines.
Chenin Blanc is often compared to other white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, offering a diverse range of flavors.
Fun fact: South Africa holds over 50% of the world's Chenin Blanc vineyards. Historically known as Steen, more South African producers now label it as Chenin Blanc.
What Does Chenin Blanc Taste Like?
Did you know that Chenin Blanc is one of the world’s most versatile grapes? It can be produced in a range of styles from dry and mineral with a steely acidity, to luscious, sweet and refreshing wines which can age for decades. Chenin Blanc can also be used to produce some delicious sparkling wines, the most famous of these is called Crémant de Loire – an exceptional French bubbles for a fraction of the price of Champagne!
Typically dry, Chenin Blanc features a wide range of flavors, from tart pear, quince, and ginger to richer notes of ripe peach, honeycomb, and toasted almond.
The winemaking process significantly influences these flavors. Tank fermentation produces fresh, fruit-forward wines with zippy acidity, while oak fermentation imparts richer flavors and textures, akin to Chardonnay.
Chenin Blanc's natural high acidity makes it a perfect pairing for rich foods. Its zippy acidity complements butter and cream, enhancing dishes like fish and poultry.
Exceptional Chenin Blanc Wines from Western Australia
Millbrook 2023 Regional Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc is experiencing a resurgence in Western Australia, particularly in the Swan Valley, dubbed the capital of Chenin Blanc in Australia.
Winemaker Emma Gillespie said: "Chenin Blanc has a great natural acidity that holds up well to the warm Swan climate, whilst still developing a great flavour profile."
Her winemaking philosophy? "Don't make it like Chardonnay – let the fruit express itself in majority stainless steel tank, with a hint of barrel ferment to layer in the texture."
The Millbrook 2023 Regional Chenin Blanc showcases crisp apples, lime, and bright florals, delivering a juicy, long finish. This refreshing wine is a testament to the vibrant style of Swan Valley Chenin Blanc.
Deep Woods Estate 2021 Redlands Chenin Blanc
Margaret River is gaining recognition for its exceptional Chenin Blanc and Chief Winemaker Julian Langworthy describes it as "Margaret River’s other great white grape."
The Deep Woods Estate 2021 Redlands Chenin Blanc is sourced from the Yallingup Hills in Margaret River.
When describing this wine, Julian said: “It is super exciting to put out a Chenin Blanc under the Deep Woods label. Sourced from the Yallingup Hills, right in the middle of the Deep Woods heartland. This wine has a lovely natural acidity and huge complexity from partial barrel ferment. A very versatile wine with a saline and slinky citrus drive.”
Browse our range of Chenin Blanc here.
