Chenin vs. Albariño: Two Grapes That Belong on Your Table This Summer

When the sun shows up in Clonmel, you want wines that are alive in the glass. For us, that means two grapes we keep reaching for: Chenin Blanc and Albariño. Different countries, different personalities, but both built for summer tables.

Chenin Blanc – Loire Valley’s Shape-Shifter

Chenin comes from the Loire in France, and it does everything: sparkling, dry, off-dry, even sweet. The beauty of Chenin is in its versatility. Crisp orchard fruit, citrus, sometimes honey or wax if it’s got a bit of age. It’s got acidity to cut through creamy dishes, but enough weight to stand up to spice.

• Pair it with our creamy mushrooms on sourdough or curry wings.
• Drink it cold, but don’t be afraid to let it warm a touch in the glass—it rewards patience.

Albariño – Galicia’s Ocean Breeze

Albariño is the white grape of Galicia, Spain’s rainy northwest corner. Think sea spray, lime, stone fruit, and that mouthwatering salty edge. It’s built for seafood and hot days—it tastes like it belongs beside a plate of prawns.

• Pair it with our gambas al ajillo or calamari.
• It’s the kind of wine you can drink all afternoon without it ever feeling heavy.

Why They Belong Side by Side

Both grapes bring freshness, but in different keys. Chenin is layered and textural, Albariño is crisp and direct. One is French precision, the other Spanish coastal charm. Put them on the same table, and you’ve got contrast that makes each one better.

Where to Find Them

We keep both on our list at Bodega 1830, and our team can walk you through the styles—whether you want a mineral Montlouis Chenin or a zippy Rías Baixas Albariño. Best advice: order both, line them up with a few tapas, and decide for yourself which wins the summer.

Book your table via OpenTable. Start with tapas downstairs, finish the night with a cocktail upstairs at Gatsby’s.

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