Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are two white wine grape varieties that can produce a range of styles, from dry to off-dry to sweet. However, when it comes to comparing the sweetness levels of these two wines, Chenin Blanc tends to have a sweeter profile overall.
Chenin Blanc is a versatile grape that can be made into a variety of wine styles. In its dry form, it can exhibit flavors of green apple, pear, and citrus, with a zesty acidity. However, it is in its off-dry and sweet iterations where Chenin Blanc truly shines. These wines can display luscious notes of honey, apricot, peach, and even tropical fruits. The sweetness in Chenin Blanc wines can range from just a hint of residual sugar (off-dry) to a more pronounced sweetness (sweet).
On the other hand, Sauvignon Blanc is primarily known for producing dry white wines. It is prized for its high acidity, vibrant citrus flavors, and herbaceous character. In fact, the crisp and refreshing nature of Sauvignon Blanc is often a key selling point for wine lovers who enjoy a dry, zippy white wine. While Sauvignon Blanc can have some fruitiness to it, it is typically not associated with sweetness.
That being said, there are exceptions to every rule. Some Sauvignon Blanc winemakers might choose to add a small amount of sugar (a process called chaptalization) to balance out the naturally high acidity of the grape. This can result in a slightly off-dry style of Sauvignon Blanc, where the sweetness is barely perceptible. However, it is important to note that this is not the norm for Sauvignon Blanc, and the majority of wines made from this grape are dry.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have found that Chenin Blanc tends to offer a wider range of sweetness levels compared to Sauvignon Blanc. When recommending wines to customers who prefer sweeter styles, Chenin Blanc is often a top choice. Its versatility allows for different levels of sweetness, making it suitable for various palates and occasions.
To summarize, Chenin Blanc generally tends to be sweeter than Sauvignon Blanc. While Sauvignon Blanc is most commonly produced as a dry white wine, Chenin Blanc can be made into off-dry and sweet styles, offering a wider range of sweetness levels. However, it is worth noting that there are exceptions, and some Sauvignon Blanc wines may exhibit a touch of sweetness, albeit not as frequently as Chenin Blanc. Ultimately, the sweetness of a wine depends on the winemaker's choice and the desired style of the final product.