A Tale of Two Blancs: Exploring the Differences Between Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc
When it comes to white wines, there's a vast array of options to explore. Today’s discussion is on the difference between well-known, crowd-favorite Sauvignon Blanc and the more niche, but ever-so-enjoyable Chenin Blanc. Let's delve into what distinguishes them from each other.
Sauvignon Blanc: Bright, Vibrant, and Zesty
Sauvignon Blanc, known for its zesty acidity and vibrant fruit flavors, is a quintessential choice on a hot day if you’re looking for a crisp and refreshing white wine. The varietal is originally from one of the most famous wine regions in France, the Loire Valley AOP Sancerre, dating back to the 16th century, and was further popularized by New Zealand’s Marlborough district. While France continues to be the largest producer of Sauvignon Blanc, it is now grown world-wide with notable productions in New Zealand, Chile, South Africa, and the Napa Valley.
The 2023 Acre Sauvignon Blanc leaps out of the glass with enticing aromas of white peach, Meyer lemon, pineapple, candied ginger and lemongrass. On the palate, gaining in complexity, notes of grilled peach, lime zest, and orange blossoms intermingle with hints of apricot, lemon curd, and sea salt. The texture is supple, and the fresh acidity keeps the wine vibrant and lively. What sets this wine apart is not just its flavor profile but also its origin – the Morgaen Lee Vineyard in the heart of the Yountville AVA. Here, the vines bask in the warmth of sunny days and are cooled by the breezes of cool nights, resulting in grapes that embody the perfect balance of flavors and acidity. And let's not forget, it's 100% organic, a testament to our commitment to sustainability and purity in winemaking.
Chenin Blanc: Crisp, Herbaceous, and Elegant
Chenin Blanc, hailed as one of the most versatile white wine grapes, offers a diverse range of styles, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. Just like Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc originated in the Loire Valley in France but earlier in the 9th century, and now the largest production comes from South Africa. There are fewer than 5,000 acres of Chenin Blanc planted in the United States, and we’re extremely proud to dedicate our time and energy into making one of the few Chenin Blancs in Napa Valley, where there are less than 17.5 acres currently planted.
The 2023 Acre Chenin Blanc is a luminous pale straw hue with aromatics of lemongrass, thyme, and verbena. The palate unfolds with flavors of apricot, fennel, lemon and lime zest, and a guava, pineapple, papaya tropical fruit medley, culminating in a nuanced expression of chamomile and saline minerality on the lingering finish. Sourced from Betty's Vineyard, which is part of the Ballentine Family Estate Vineyards within the St. Helena AVA, this Chenin Blanc is a product of sustainable farming practices, a testament to the reverence for the land and its bounty. Fermented and aged in 100% stainless steel, it strikes the perfect balance between freshness and complexity, a true embodiment of the varietal's potential.
Key Contrasts: A Closer Look
Sauvignon Blanc - aromatic, refreshing, high acidity
Enjoy this wine with - sunshine, fresh seafood, summer salads, sushi, oysters on the half shell, and rosemary garlic chicken burgers, and pesto pasta
Chenin Blanc - vibrant, lively, complex
Enjoy this wine with - an elevated happy hour with friends, Brie and Camembert cheeses, crab cakes, shrimp scampi, Thai green curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, sushi, prosciutto wrapped melon, gruyere and spinach quiche, veggie platters, and your favorite charcuterie board
Here’s the bottom line - you’re going to need to try them both and let us know what you think!
Through the end of May, use code BLANC and save 15% with ground shipping included on 12+ bottles. We recommend 6 bottles of each but won’t be surprised if you need a restock by mid-summer!