Wine enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the second weekend of June. Why? Because it’s Drink Chenin Blanc Day, a global celebration of this incredibly versatile white grape varietal! At Expat Explore, we love showcasing the unique cuisines, cultures, and history from around the globe, and this June we’re shining a spotlight on the history of Chenin Blanc in South Africa. But for those new to the world of Chenin Blanc, what exactly are we raising a glass to?
Related: Interested in learning more about world cuisine? Take a look at some of the Food Feuds of the World.
A grape steeped in history
Chenin Blanc boasts a long and illustrious history. Evidence suggests it originated in the Loire Valley of France, where it’s been cultivated for centuries. From bone-dry Vouvrays to sweet dessert wines, Chenin Blanc wines showcase remarkable versatility depending on terroir and winemaking techniques.
Related: Discover France’s best wines and wine regions.
From the Loire Valley to South Africa’s sunshine
However it began, Chenin Blanc found a new home in South Africa. Thriving in the sunny South African climate, Chenin became the country’s most widely planted white grape. The history of Chenin Blanc in South Africa dates back to the 17th century. It is believed to be amongst the first vine cuttings that arrived on South African soil in 1655.
Also known as Steen in South Africa, Chenin Blanc underwent a fascinating transformation. South African winemakers embraced the grape’s adaptability, vinifying it in a vast array of styles. From refreshing dry whites bursting with citrus and tropical fruit notes to rich, honeyed dessert wines, South African Chenin Blanc now offers a spectrum of flavours to tantalise every palate.
This unique journey and optimal climate have positioned South African Chenin Blanc as a cornerstone of the New World wine scene. It offers incredible value, consistently exceeding expectations for its price point. Many South African Chenin Blanc producers also embrace sustainable practices, making it a conscious choice for environmentally friendly wine drinkers.
Related: Learn more about South Africa’s wine regions by reading our travel guide to South African wine.
An iconic cultivar making waves in New World wines
New World wine regions showcase their unique characteristics through Chenin Blanc wines, creating a sense of place and individuality. It is also commonly used in the production of orange wine, an intriguing way of making white wine!
Orange you curious? Let’s dive into skin-contact wines!
Orange winemaking is an ancient technique, but it’s seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly in Europe (notably in Slovenia and Georgia) and parts of the New World (such as California and South Africa). It appeals to adventurous wine drinkers who enjoy exploring unique flavour profiles and styles.
Also known as skin-contact white wine, skin-fermented white wine, or amber wine, orange wine is a unique style made from white wine grapes that challenge the way we think about white wines. Unlike typical white wine production where grape skins are removed quickly, orange wine grapes stay in contact with the juice for days or even months during fermentation. This extended contact extracts colour, tannins, and flavour compounds from the skins, resulting in the wine’s distinctive characteristics. Think full-bodied, creamy white wines that will leave you wanting more!
Despite the name, orange wine isn’t actually orange! It can range from a pale gold to a deep amber or even copper hue, depending on the grape variety and skin contact time.
Get a taste of the new world!
Are you a wine enthusiast looking to delve deeper into the wonderful world of wine and explore more intriguing and cost-effective options? South African wines are calling your name! Now, you may not be able to visit this beautiful country right now but that doesn’t mean you can’t discover some of the best South African wines at your local shop and celebrate this day with a glass of Chenin Blanc from South Africa in hand this June.
Related: Discover the world’s best winemaking regions here.
Join us on a South African wine adventure!
Explore the stunning South African wine regions firsthand on our Cape Town and the Garden Route tour or our South Africa Escape tour. Journey through the country’s most captivating landscapes, including iconic destinations like Cape Town, the Garden Route, Kruger National Park (on the full tour), and of course, the heart of South Africa’s wines, Stellenbosch!
Imagine yourself strolling through a vineyard bathed in sunshine, learning about the meticulous care that goes into cultivating South African white wine grapes such as Chenin Blanc. As you taste local wines taking in the breathtaking scenery around you, a knowledgeable guide explains the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the wines you’re about to savour. With every sip, you’ll discover the essence of South Africa – its sunshine, its fertile soil, and the passionate spirit of its winemakers.
Ready for a trip of a lifetime? Embark on a South African adventure where you’ll taste your way through the food and drinks of the rainbow nation and find out exactly what makes this country so special. Book your adventure today!