We're talking to you about Chenin

Chenin , also known as Pineau de la Loire , is an iconic white grape variety from the Loire Valley in France. Its history dates back centuries, and its name is said to come from the Montchenin Abbey , where it was once cultivated. First called Plant d'Anjou , it has established itself as one of the most versatile grape varieties in the world.

A grape variety with many faces

Chenin is a chameleon grape variety, capable of producing an incredible diversity of wines, ranging from dry to sweet , including very fine sparkling wines . Its naturally high acidity is one of its most striking characteristics, allowing it to age magnificently for several decades. This allows this grape variety to express all the richness of its terroir and offer a unique aromatic complexity.

Its wines present a very varied palette of aromas:

• Floral : acacia, linden, hawthorn
• Fruity : apple, pear, quince, peach, citrus
• Scalable : honey, beeswax, dried fruits, gingerbread
• Minerals : flint, gunflint, chalky notes

Depending on the climate and winemaking techniques, Chenin can produce lively, taut wines in cooler terroirs, while in warmer climates it produces round, generous wines. In the presence of botrytis cinerea (noble rot), it can produce great sweet wines of incomparable richness and complexity.

A globally adopted grape variety

While the Loire Valley remains its cradle, particularly in prestigious appellations such as Vouvray , Montlouis-sur-Loire , Savennières , Coteaux du Layon and Quarts de Chaume , Chenin has conquered other continents. It is particularly well established in South Africa , where it is now the most cultivated white grape variety and is distinguished by both dry and sweet wines. It is also found in California , Australia , Argentina and even New Zealand .

A demanding but expressive grape variety

Chenin is naturally vigorous and fertile , which requires rigorous control of yields to ensure optimal aromatic concentration. It adapts perfectly to limestone, tuffeau and schist soils , provided they are well drained. The mildness of Anjou is particularly favorable to it, as it allows for good health of the berries while promoting the development of botrytis for sweet wines.

A grape variety suited to gastronomy

Thanks to its diversity of styles, Chenin can accompany a wide variety of dishes:

• Dry wines : seafood, grilled fish, white meats in sauce
• Sparkling wines : aperitifs, fresh cheeses, vegetable tempura
• Sweet and liqueur wines : foie gras, fruit desserts, blue cheeses like Roquefort

An exceptional grape variety, Chenin seduces with its elegance, freshness, and ability to capture the terroir with rare precision. Whether you enjoy taut, mineral whites or sweet, opulent wines, this grape variety never ceases to amaze with its richness and longevity.