Chenin Blanc!

By Gina Trippi
Chenin Blanc. Chenin Blanc. Chenin Blanc!
This workhorse varietal is about to take center stage solo. Chenin Blanc is offered from sweet, to dry, to sparkling.
Industry analysts say white wines are on track for growth in 2025, outpacing reds globally. In addition to mainstays including Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio, lesser-known varietals are gaining popularity.
Chenin Blanc with the brightness of Sauvignon Blanc, and the body and complexity of Chardonnay, is leading the way.

Painted Wolf “Den” Chenin Blanc from South Africa sources some of the best grapes from carefully selected vineyards and has achieved multiple international and local accolades and awards for their wines.
Chenin Blanc originated in Loire Valley and was probably introduced to South Africa in a collection of cuttings sent to the Dutch East India Company. Chenin Blanc proliferated and by the early 21st century, Chenin Blanc was the most widely planted varietal.
In the 1970s, plantings of Chenin Blanc in the Loire were uprooted in favor of the more fashionable Sauvignon Blanc. But in the late 1960s and early 1970s in South Africa, Chenin Blanc flourished.
Now we see that Chenin Blanc appears to have climate change resistance. Due to this resilience in warmer climates, French producers in the Loire Valley predict plantings will surpass Sauvignon Blanc.
US winemakers are also working to revive the appeal of Chenin Blanc. But nowhere is the focus stronger than on Chenin Blanc from the Western Cape of South Africa.
Viticulturalists say barrel fermented Chenin Blanc from South Africa offers the equivalent of oak-influenced Chardonnay from California; presenting toast and vanilla notes of wood that complement the flavors of peach and pineapple that the grape assumes in Stellenbosch.
At the same time, Chenin Blanc holds onto its characteristic refreshing and firm acidity on the finish.
Metro Wines has had Painted Wolf “Den” Chenin Blanc from South Africa in the shop for more than five years. The winery sources some of the best grapes from carefully selected vineyards and has achieved multiple international and local accolades and awards for their wines.
“Den” is 100% Chenin Blanc from the Western Cape. The nose reveals a blend of ripe peach, green apple, and tropical fruits backed by subtle floral undertones and a hint of honey.
On the palate, the vibrant fruit flavors are balanced by a crisp acidity, giving the wine a refreshing and well-rounded profile, both lively and complex. The long finish leaves a lingering impression of the bright fruit flavors with whispers of honey.
What’s the name all about? The vision of Painted Wolf Winery is to be the leading conservation wine company and to generate funding for securing a sustainable future for African Wild Dogs.
“My winemaking philosophy is a product of the numerous paths I have taken in my life and the very fine wine people with whom I have worked.
"As a former professional chef and a foodie, I have a great interest in making wines that are balanced and harmonious. This conveniently aligns with many of the attributes of painted wolves: energetic, balanced and persistent,” says Winemaker Jeremy Borg.
At Metro Wines, customers value the quality and cause of Painted Wolf Wines.

Metro Wines Asheville
Charlotte Street! It’s the Next BIG Thing!
“Big Shop Selection. Small Shop Service”
828-575-9525 | metrowinesasheville.com
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