About Chenin Blanc

About Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc is a white wine made in numerous styles; the most famous examples are from France's Loire Valley, while there are also some notable versions from South Africa and California.

Chenin Blanc has very high acidity and is often produced in an off-dry style called demi-sec. A dry style from the Loire is called Savennières. There are also sparking versions of Chenin Blanc, namely Crémant de Loire also known as Saumur.

Dry versions are made by a few artisan estates in California, although a typical inexpensive California version is off-dry or lightly sweet. Steel aged with appealing citrus fruit, these wines should be drunk young and pair well with simple salads.

Top Picks for Chenin Blanc

William Heritage 2023 Limited Release Chenin Blanc
92 points
$34
A beautiful example of cooler climate Chenin Blanc with only a light touch from the winemaker that allows the grapes to shine on their own.
Awards: '2024 New Jersey Wine Competition - Best Vinifera White Wine' 2024 New Jersey Wine Competition - Governor's Cup for Best White Vinifera
Darling Cellars 2024 Arum Fields Reserve Chenin Blanc
91 points
$16
Best Buy
Nice complexity with spot on South African typicity for Chenin Blanc; lovely ripe orchard fruit with good acidity and traditional weight to the body.
91 points $16 Best Buy
Ste Chapelle NV Open Air Chenin Blanc
90 points
$24
A delightful Chenin Blanc led blend that will pair well with apéritif courses as well as light fish.
Biltmore Estate 2022 Limited Release Chenin Blanc
86 points
$19
Ripe stone fruit pairs nicely with floral aromas to make this delicious, quaffable white wine.