Fine Chenin Blancs from the USA are not as common as they should be, although there is a renewed interest in this fine variety. Once widely planted for bulk wine production, Chenin vines have been supplanted by more popular varieties in recent decades. Chenin provides wines of distinction and fine style when grown and vinified properly. The 2021 L’Ecole 41 Chenin Blanc is among the USA’s best Chenin Blancs. The Yakima Valley vineyards that are the source for this wine date 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 bouquet is enhanced 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 underlain by a rich texture and a dry finish.
L’Ecole 41, Yakima Valley (Washington) Chenin Blanc 2021
By Wayne Belding