History of Chenin blanc in South Africa

In the early years, 17^th and 18^th century, the first grapes were pressed in 1659, from two varieties; Chenin blanc, then called “steendruiven” is one of them.
In the 19^th century South Africa was overtaken by Britain, steen plantings were overtaken by Semillon which eclipses other varieties.
In recent history, different actions have changed the perception of Chenin blanc from cheap and cheerful to a high quality variety.

International Chenin Blanc Congress – Congrès International du Chenin Blanc

I. von Holdt

Steendruiven, the French Huguenots, Chenin blanc, change of perception

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1430.11