When it comes to white wine, Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay is a comparison many wine lovers find intriguing. These two varietals are among the most popular and widely enjoyed, each with its own distinct flavour profile and characteristics. Both wines have rich histories and unique attributes that make them stand out in the world of wine. While these grapes originate from different regions of France, they have found a special home in South Africa, where they are crafted into exceptional wines.
South Africa is one of the few wine-producing countries that excels in both Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay, offering wine lovers diverse styles that range from crisp and refreshing to bold and creamy. But how do these two varietals compare? Which one is right for your taste preferences?
In this guide, we’ll explore the difference between Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay, helping you understand their origins, characteristics, and food pairings. Whether you’re looking for a wine to enjoy on a summer afternoon or something to complement your next meal, this blog will help you make the perfect choice between Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay.
Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay: Chenin Blanc Characteristics
Origins of Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc has a fascinating history with its roots in the Loire Valley, France, where it has been cultivated for centuries. In his writings, Charles le Chauve referenced a “plant d’Anjou,” which he donated to the Abbey Saint-Maur de Glanfeuil. He could not have guessed that this modest vine would go on to achieve great recognition. By the 15th century, it became known as Chenin Blanc, taking its name from Mont Chenin.
Centuries later, in 1655, Governor Jan van Riebeeck introduced Chenin Blanc to the Cape of Good Hope. Among the first vines brought to the region, it played a key role in the early days of winemaking at the Cape. A historic milestone took place on February 2, 1659, when three young vines yielded their first harvest. The resulting fourteen and a half litres of wine came from grapes referred to as steendruif and hanepoot (also known as Muscat d’Alexandrie), which today are recognised as Chenin Blanc.
The varietal has truly flourished in South Africa, where it is the most widely planted white grape variety. The warm climate and diverse terroirs of South Africa allow winemakers to produce an incredible range of Chenin Blanc styles, from dry and crisp to sweet and luscious.
Characteristics of Chenin Blanc
South African Chenin Blanc is incredibly versatile and is often praised for its bright acidity and complex flavour profile.
Key Flavour Notes
- Dry, Flat Chenin Blanc: These wines tend to have a fuller body with pronounced acidity, showcasing floral aromas alongside notes of yellow apple, pear, quince, and green apple. Hints of pepper, straw, and occasional woody, smoky, or mineral undertones may also be present.
- Semi-Sweet or Off-Dry Chenin: Offering a more pronounced fruit character, these wines feature fragrances of honeysuckle, guava, and peach, creating a richer aromatic profile.
- Sweet Chenin Blanc: Produced from late-harvest grapes, these wines display concentrated flavours of honeycomb, ginger, tropical fruits and marmalade. If noble rot develops, it can introduce complex hints of saffron and a subtle smokiness.
- Sparkling Chenin: Made using the traditional method, these sparkling wines can range from dry to sweet, similar in style to Champagne, offering a lively and refreshing drinking experience.
Is Chenin Blanc Dry or Sweet?
One of the fascinating aspects of Chenin Blanc is its ability to be made in different sweetness levels. It can be dry, off-dry, or sweet, depending on the winemaker’s approach. Some producers craft bone-dry Chenin Blancs with zesty acidity, while others allow residual sugar to remain, creating richer, honeyed wines.
Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay: Chardonnay Characteristics
Origins of Chardonnay
For many years, Chardonnay was often mistaken for Pinot Blanc due to their similar appearance in the vineyard. Over time, various theories emerged regarding its origins. Some speculated it descended from Muscat, others suggested it came from Cyprus, while another belief was that Crusaders brought it back from the Middle East. However, modern genetic analysis has confirmed that Chardonnay is a natural cross between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc.
The earliest recorded mention of Chardonnay dates back to the 1600s in Mâconnais, though it was likely cultivated in Burgundy and along the Côte de Beaune up to Chablis long before then. By the late 18th century, it had made its way to Champagne, where it became an integral part of sparkling wine production.
Characteristics of Chardonnay
In the conversation Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay, South African Chardonnay is known for its balance between Old World elegance and New World richness.
Flavour Profile
Chardonnay is typically a dry white wine, but its flavour profile varies depending on whether it is unoaked or oaked.
- Unoaked Chardonnay: Crisp acidity, citrus, green apple, and mineral notes.
- Oaked Chardonnay: Vanilla, butter, tropical fruits, and a creamy texture due to malolactic fermentation.
Chardonnay’s Role in Sparkling Wines
Chardonnay is one of the key grapes used in Champagne and South Africa’s Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) sparkling wines. These wines showcase the grape’s elegance and finesse, with fine bubbles and notes of brioche, citrus, and almond.
For those comparing Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay, the key difference lies in the richness of Chardonnay versus the vibrant acidity of Chenin Blanc.
Key Differences: Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay
Grape Adaptability and Growing Regions
Chenin Blanc thrives in diverse climates and can be made in a range of styles, from dry to sweet. Chardonnay is known for its ability to reflect its terroir and winemaking choices, making it a favourite among winemakers worldwide.
Flavour and Texture
Chenin Blanc is often higher in acidity and has fruitier, floral, and honeyed notes, while Chardonnay tends to be fuller-bodied, with richer textures, especially when oaked. Neither Chenin Blanc or Chardonnay are crisp, mineral wines.
Winemaking Influence
Chenin Blanc is typically aged in stainless steel to preserve its bright acidity, though some versions are aged in oak. Chardonnay is more commonly aged in oak, developing creamy textures and toasty flavours.
How Does Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay Compare to Other White Wines?
Difference Between Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is known for its crisp acidity and grassy, citrus notes, while Chenin Blanc tends to have more stone fruit and honeyed aromas.
Difference Between Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc: The lightest and crispest of the three.
- Chenin Blanc: Falls between Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay in body and acidity.
- Chardonnay: The fullest-bodied and often the richest.
If you’re deciding between Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay, or Chenin vs Sauvignon Blanc, think about whether you prefer the freshness of Chenin Blanc, the crispness of the Sauvignon or the fuller-bodied, often richer character of Chardonnay.
HER Wines Chenin Blanc
HER Wine Collection produces a high-quality 2024 Chenin Blanc, known for its balance of acidity and fruit-forward profile. It offers aromas of tropical fruit, green melon, white pear and yellow apple, making it a perfect pairing with cheese platters and fresh salads.
HER Wines Bursary
The HER Wines Collection Bursary supports young women in the wine industry, helping them develop careers in viticulture and winemaking. The bursary provides education, mentorship, and hands-on experience to empower the next generation of female winemakers.
Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay: Buy HER Wines
There is clearly no loser in the debate between Chenin Blanc vs Chardonnay. HER Wines offer excellent wines, including Chenin Blanc that showcase South Africa’s exceptional winemaking. Find HER Wines at Takealot, Woolworths, and other leading retailers nationwide. Explore our collection today and find your perfect bottle!