Fine Chenin Blancs from the USA are not as common as they should be. Once widely planted for bulk wine production, Chenin vines have been supplanted by more popular varieties in recent decades. That’s too bad, because Chenin provides wines of distinction and fine style when grown and vinified properly. The 2018 L’Ecole 41 Chenin Blanc is among the USA’s top, affordable Chenin Blancs. The vineyards for this delicious white are some of Washington’s oldest plantings of Chenin – dating back some forty years. The L’Ecole 41 Chenin Blanc has an exotic nose of ripe apple, pear, guava, flowers and citrus fruits. The intriguing nose is underscored by a complex and dry palate. The succulent citrus, pear, apple and tropical fruit flavors are backed by hints of flowers and subtle herbs. The complex aromas and flavors are enhanced by a moderately rich texture and a dry finish. This is a delicious Chenin Blanc that more US winemakers would do well to emulate.
L’Ecole 41, Yakima Valley (Washington) Chenin Blanc 2018
By Wayne Belding