Wine with Gerard Richardson

TWAS a bit of a surprise to find out that there’s such a thing as Chenin Blanc day, but I guess the old girl deserves one for its tenacity at least. It’s always been a curious grape with dedicated fans and lots of detractors, particularly when faced with the French versions but then South Africa came along.

Instead of focussing on sparkling or sweet wines as in the Loire valley, the South Africans started to produce cheap and cheerful styles or dry fruity wines which over the years have got better and better.

In addition, more and more vineyards started to experiment with oak and fermentation, resulting in an increasing number of quality versions each year.

I’ve watched this progression with fascination for decades and it’s been a real thrill to watch the grape go from being the master of the old three for a tenner to having the capability to rival the most complex of chardonnays.

Yes, I really did say that, because I’ve had the pleasure of trying some gorgeous ones, most of which come at a fraction of the price of their chardonnay rivals.

Anyway, Chenin Blanc day is nigh, so here’s a couple of wines that might just put a smile on your face.

Boschendal 1685 Chenin Blanc 2022

Hints of lemon zest on the nose with crisp refreshing exotic fruits on the palate and a very refreshing finish. Great with salmon but I also found it a cracking partner to vegetable curry. www. tesco. com

£9.00

Old Road Wine Co ‘Anemos’ Chenin Gorgeous! Dried apricots and white peaches on the palate with hints of toasty vanilla on the finish. I could go on but I’d rather just drink it. www.slurp.co.uk £19.95