If there’s one white wine that truly captures the essence of South Africa’s wine country, it’s Chenin Blanc. Known for its versatility, refreshing acidity and expressive flavours, Chenin Blanc has long been a favourite among winemakers and wine lovers alike. But few realise that this grape has a story that spans centuries and continents ranging from its French origins to its deep roots in the Cape Winelands!
Chenin Blanc’s story begins in France, where it was first recorded between 1520 and 1535 under the name Plant d’Anjou in the Loire Valley. It later took its name from the region of Mont Chenin, where it flourished and became a cornerstone of French white winemaking.
When the first vine cuttings arrived in South Africa in 1655, they included Chenin Blanc, which was one of the earliest varietals ever planted in the Cape under Governor Jan van Riebeeck’s watch. Just four years later on 2 February 1659, the Cape’s first grapes were pressed, marking the beginning of what would become one of the world’s great wine industries.
For much of its early history, South Africans knew Chenin Blanc by another name which is Steen. It wasn’t until much later that researchers discovered that Steen and Chenin Blanc were, in fact one and the same grape.
Today South Africa is the largest producer of Chenin Blanc in the world, accounting for more than half of global production. With over 16,000 hectares under vine, Chenin Blanc is the country’s most planted grape variety which is a testament to how well it thrives in the Cape’s varied climates and soils.
Interestingly, a significant portion of South Africa’s Chenin Blanc is also used in the production of brandy, crafted in much the same way as Cognac and with equally impressive results. South African brandies are internationally recognised for their quality and character, making them a delightful discovery for spirit enthusiasts. For those interested, brandy tastings can even be incorporated into a private wine tour, offering a unique way to experience another side of the Cape’s rich winemaking tradition.
The country also boasts an incredible number of old vine Chenin Blancs, with more than 7 million individual vines comprising nearly 2,500 hectares of heritage vineyards. Many of these vines date back decades, with some as old as 1942, producing wines with remarkable complexity and depth.
What makes it so beloved is its range and versatility. Depending on how it’s made, it can be crisp and fruit forward or rich and textured. Unoaked styles are bright and refreshing with notes of pear, yellow apple, guava, quince and peach. Oaked Chenin Blancs tend to be more rounded, often showing hints of honey, spice and vanilla.
This adaptability makes Chenin Blanc a winemaker’s dream as it can be used in everything from crisp summer whites and sparkling wines to rich dessert styles. Its naturally high acidity also gives it excellent aging potential with many bottles continuing to evolve beautifully for 10 years or more.
There’s no better way to experience Chenin Blanc than by tasting it where it’s grown, right here within South Africa’s Cape Wine Routes. From the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek valleys to Paarl, Swartland, and Elgin, every region brings its own expression of this iconic varietal.
Our private wine tours are designed to give you a truly personal experience and you’ll visit boutique estates and family run wineries, meet passionate winemakers and taste Chenin Blancs that range from young and vibrant to elegantly aged. Along the way, you’ll discover the landscapes, history and craftsmanship that have made South African Chenin Blanc world renowned.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing day among the vines, our tours offer a chance to savour the best of South African wine culture. With its deep roots, adaptability, and remarkable quality, it’s no surprise that this humble French grape has become the heart and soul of South African white wine.
So next time you raise a glass of Chenin Blanc, remember that you’re tasting not just a wine, but a piece of history that spans over three centuries.
