Wines made from Chenin blanc grapes of Maine
Discover the best wines made with Chenin blanc as a single variety or as a blend of Maine.
Chameleon whites with taut acidity, ranging from mineral dry (Savennières, Vouvray sec) to off-dry and medium-sweet (Vouvray, Montlouis), sumptuous botrytised sweet (Quarts-de-Chaume, Bonnezeaux, Coteaux du Layon) and brilliant sparkling (Crémant de Loire, Vouvray brut). Aromas of quince, apple, honey, white flowers, beeswax and flint. An Anjou variety, also star of South Africa's Western Cape.
North-eastern US state (New England), small and growing wine industry, harsh continental climate (−25°C in winter) requiring cold-hardy hybrids. Marquette is the flagship red (University of Minnesota programme): spicy with notes of black cherry, blackberry, plum, pepper, herbs and a smoky touch, fine tannins and vivid acidity. Dense Frontenac, lively Frontenac Blanc/Gris and Itasca in whites (citrus, pineapple, flowers). Speciality: fruit wines (blueberry, cranberry, apple).