Paying tribute to South African Chenin this month to share that it is no longer the workhorse grape, but rather one of the worlds finest.
Long and varied history but it has been made to feel right at home here in South Africa. However, whilst it is oldest vine (in fact in SA the oldest vines we have are Chenin Blanc!) it has had a mixed history.
As a high acid grape (in particular malic or apple acidity) it was seen as the perfect grape for distillation for use in brandies and the like. As such it was widely planted for brandy and then later as a good bulk-producing vine as clones were introduced to push for yield over quality. Since then it has become the workhorse grape variety and until recently a much maligned grapes used mainly for blending with lesser varieties as a dry white blend.
Some industry leaders in South Africa see the potential Chenin can yield and thus associations like the Chenin Blanc Association drive for quality Chenin Blanc. Stand alone Chenin Blanc is now viewed as South Africa’s opportunity to dominate a varietal like no other.
The SA climate has meant that the naturally high acidity inherent in Chenin Blanc when combined with the naturally sweet and aromatic flavours which are prevalent in SA Chenin clones, produces wines of depth and character, and ultimately, of great versatility. Another name for Chenin Blanc in South Africa is Steen.
Couple all of this with the fact that the old bush vines we have deliver small concentrated berries giving intensity to our wines and you see that we have something special. To this end many vineyards are being located to preserve them being grubbed up so we can have access to preserve this heritage and keep producing fabulous wines – thus we must drink more of them!
Cheers!!
