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Monday, 28 August 2006 |
Most white wines are unappreciated, and Chenin Blanc would have to top the list. This is because that most Chenin Blancs that we are familiar with were jug wines consumed in college dorm rooms.
Most white wines are unappreciated, and Chenin Blanc would have to top the list. This is because that most Chenin Blancs that we are familiar with were jug wines consumed in college dorm rooms. Most Chenin Blanc grown in California is still blended into white generic blends. However, in France's Loire Valley, Chenin Blanc makes absolutely world-class wines, ranging from delicate, bone-dry bottlings to satiny, honeyed sweet wines. Fine Chenin Blancs are fragrant with aromas of pears, melons, peaches and apricots. They often possess mineral aromas typical of the areas they are grown in.
Monterey County, though known more for its Chardonnay, produces some of the state's best Chenin Blanc. Arguably, the most famous producer would be Chalone Vineyards where Chenin Blanc vines that date back to 1919 still produce outstanding wines. Ventana Vineyards has based their reputation on this interesting grape as you will taste this month. Also, Ventana's Doug Meador, just released an ultra-premium brand called Meador Estate. Chenin Blanc is one of the four varietals this winery produces and is made in a crisp and elegant Loire Valley style.
For food-friendliness, Chenin Blanc is right up their with Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. While these wines are somewhat out of fashion, one can take advantage of ridiculously low prices, even for some of the best wines.
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