Origin and cultivation background
South African-bred white wine grape cross by
Prof. Offer, with Chenin blanc and Trebbiano as combination parents, released
in 1974. Trials over the years have shown that Chenel is very resistant to
berry cracking and rainy weather, and that it is virtually immune to botrytis
and sour rot, even under the worst conditions. It has produced excellent
results using intensive cultivation methods, for example irrigation and high
trellising, with high yields and balanced wines that in some cases have a
floral bouquet on fermentation. Although Chenel initially enjoyed active
interest, particularly in irrigated regions, it has never been planted on a
large scale. It is currently cultivated in all the regions, with the exception
of Malmesbury. The largest concentration is found in the Robertson area,
followed by Worcester.
Cultivation characteristics
Vigorous, medium-dense and well adapted to
various climatic regions. Because of its resistance to rot and strong vigor, it
is usually cultivated on fertile, low-lying soils under irrigation in warmer
regions. Under these conditions, in conjunction with high trellising, yields of
23 to 27 ton/ha are produced when spur pruned. Fairly resistant to odium and
downy mildew, and virtually immune to botrytis and sour rot. Usually produces
neutral table wines with good balance.
Chenel has good compatibility with commercial
rootstocks.
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
Yield potential
16-20 tons per ha
Average sugar concentration
20-22°B
Average acid concentration
6-8 g/l
Clone characteristics
Only one clone, CH 35 is available. CH 35 exhibits high vigor
with above-average yields.
No specific cultivar characteristics - typically have a
neutral flavor.
MORPHOLOGY
Shoot tips
Felty, white.
Leaves
Medium-sized, round, weakly three-lobed,
dull green, blistered, webby underneath.
The petiole sinus is narrowly V-shaped,
lateral sinuses very shallow. The teeth are slightly convex and pointed. The
veins and petioles are green.
Bunches
Medium and fairly long, cylindrical,
slightly shouldered, well filled but not compact.
Wing bunches are often well-developed.
The peduncle is of medium length.
Berries
Medium-sized, short oval. Thin, tough
skin.
The pulp is juicy with a neutral taste.
PHENOLOGY
Bud burst
First half of September (approximately 5
days later than Chenin blanc).
Flowering
First half of November (4 to 5 days
later than Chenin blanc).
Ripening
Late mid-season, last half of February
to first half of March (4 to 7 days later than
