Eclavin

WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 25

L2 • Ep 25
WSET L2 Quiz

Which of the following statements best describes the characteristics of Chenin Blanc, one of the most widely planted white varieties in South Africa?

ALow acidity, neutral aromas, and exclusively grown in very hot inland regions.
BHigh acidity, a versatile range of styles (from dry to sweet), and commonly known as 'Steen' in South Africa.
CWarm climate profile, high tannins, black fruit flavours (blackcurrant), and exclusively produced as a red wine.
DLow residual sugar, low acidity, and typically blended in the traditional Bordeaux style.
Eclavin | Wine Study
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Which of the following statements best describes the characteristics of Chenin Blanc, one of the most widely planted white varieties in South Africa?

Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)

Practice Question

Which of the following statements best describes the characteristics of Chenin Blanc, one of the most widely planted white varieties in South Africa?

  • A. Low acidity, neutral aromas, and exclusively grown in very hot inland regions.
  • B. High acidity, a versatile range of styles (from dry to sweet), and commonly known as 'Steen' in South Africa.
  • C. Warm climate profile, high tannins, black fruit flavours (blackcurrant), and exclusively produced as a red wine.
  • D. Low residual sugar, low acidity, and typically blended in the traditional Bordeaux style.

Answer & Explanation

Answer: B. High acidity, a versatile range of styles (from dry to sweet), and commonly known as 'Steen' in South Africa. Explanation: Chenin Blanc is the ultimate 'chameleon' of the white wine world. Its primary hallmark is its naturally high acidity, which allows it to produce everything from razor-sharp dry wines to luscious noble rot dessert wines. In South Africa, it has a long history and is widely referred to by its local name, 'Steen.'

Expert Exam Tip

[Trap]: Do not assume that "Semillon is only used for sweet dessert wines." While famous for Sauternes, Australia’s Hunter Valley produces some of the world’s most iconic and bone-dry Semillons. [Tip]: In the L2 exam, if you see the words 'High Acidity' and 'Honey/Toast' in an aged context, think 'Semillon.' If you see 'Vouvray' or 'Steen', immediately link them to 'Chenin Blanc.' Precision in acidity is their common signature.