Chenin Blanc is a variety I have become very fond of. During our trip to South Africa, I fell in love with it. I prefer barrel fermented Chenin over a stainless. There are few makers of Chenin in the United States. Of the ones I have tried they do not stand out in my opinion.
Vouvray is a French region of the Loire Valley in the Touraine district just east of the city of Tours in the commune of Vouvray. The Appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) is dedicated almost exclusively to Chenin blanc.
Wine production in this area is highly variable and dependent on climate conditions, with cooler years promoting the production of dry (sec) and sparkling Vouvray while warmer, more favorable vintage encourages the production of sweet moelleux or liquoreux styles produced by noble rot in a manner similar to the sweet dessert wines of Sauternes. With the naturally high acidity of Chenin blanc, Vouvrays from favorable vintages have immense aging potential with some examples drinking well into 100 years of age, however, it is more common to find a well aged Vouvray peaking at the 40-year mark. Across the Loire River from Vouvray is the Montlouis AOC which produces Chenin blanc based wines like Vouvray that tend to have less acidity and concentration of flavor
Sight
Pale color depth with an amber hue.
Smell
Very aromatic with notes of citrus aromas including apple and pear.
Taste
Medium to light-bodied. The acidity was very balanced. The Chenin was crisp with a slightly sweet mid-palate finish.
ABV: 11.5%
Region/Appellation: France, Vouvray.
How much: $14.00 from a local bottle shop.
I rated the 2014 Famille Bougrier Vouvray Douce Chenin Blanc three glasses. The slightly sweet white would have been better served after dinner. We drank the wine with our chicken dinner.
Life is too short to drink crappy wine. Expand your palate and keep trying.
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