Chardonnay vs Chenin Blanc – Which Should You Choose for Your Next Dinner?
When it comes to selecting the perfect wine for a dinner, white wine lovers often find themselves torn between two timeless favourites: Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc. Both varietals are celebrated in South Africa’s winemaking history, and both are beautifully represented in MVH Wines’ collection. But how do you know which one to serve?
Understanding the Grape
Chardonnay is often referred to as the winemaker’s grape due to its versatility. It can be oaked or unoaked, still or sparkling, and its flavour profile ranges from stone fruit and citrus flavours, balanced, elegant and refreshing with a concentrated fruit-driven lingering finish.
Chenin Blanc, on the other hand, is known for its vibrant acidity and floral character. Originating in the Loire Valley, this grape has found a second home in South Africa, producing wines that range from dry and crisp to rich and lusciously sweet.
When to Choose Chardonnay
- Creamy Dishes: Oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with buttery dishes, roast chicken, and cream-based pasta sauces.
- Autumn & Winter Dining: The richness of Chardonnay makes it ideal for cooler months when meals are more indulgent.
- Sophisticated Occasions: Its layered complexity elevates elegant dinners and formal gatherings.
When to Choose Chenin Blanc
- Fresh, Zesty Dishes: Think seafood, summer salads, or dishes with tangy vinaigrettes. The acidity of Chenin Blanc cuts through and enhances these flavours.
- Warmer Weather: Crisp and refreshing, Chenin Blanc is a go-to for al fresco dining and light meals.
- Exploratory Palates: Its expressive and aromatic profile is perfect for those seeking something a little different from the norm.
Our Perspective
Our Matthew Van Heerden Signature Chardonnay delivers balance, structure, and elegance; perfect for a refined dinner setting. Meanwhile, our Vine & Co Chenin Blanc offers aromatic freshness with notes of citrus fruit, peach and melon nuances, concentration of tropical passion fruit and freshness reflected effortlessly on the finish leaving juicy afterthoughts, ideal for relaxed evenings with good company and vibrant flavours.
The Verdict: Choose our Matthew Van Heerden Signature Chardonnay for a richer, more full-bodied experience, and our Vine & Co Chenin Blanc when you’re craving vibrance, brightness, and a bit of flair. Or better yet let the menu guide you and keep both on hand.
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MVH Signature Wines
We strive to reflect the proud heritage of our wine industry and country’s true warmth in hospitality. My childhood spent growing up on a farm in the Southern Drakensberg in KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Winelands stimulated my eighth generation farming interest in viticulture and winemaking.