CHENIN BLANC.

Chenin Blanc originated in the Loire, and it is one of the most versitile grapes varieties.  It makes crisp, bone dry and minerally wine, (Saumur and Savinieres), off-dry whites, such as Vouvray and Anjou, long lived nectar like dessert wines, (Coteau du Layon and Quarts de Chaume), sparkling wines, (cremant de Loire). and is even used in Brandy. Although its native region is the Loire, it is planted around the world.  it is the main white variety in South Africa, is an important variety in Calefornia,and is grown in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. 

No other grape can imitate the flavours of Loire Chenin.  When young it has the taste of green apples combined with greengage and angelica, and is minerally, dry and chalky.  Maturity brings honey, brioche, pineapple and Quince, and the Botrytised Chenin wines have flavours of peaches, pineapple, quince, barley sugar and cream, still with a good acidity.

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