In a sidewalk cafe in the sunny hollow of Stellenbosch, Judy Brower and I met with Dr. Hélène Nieuwoudt to discuss the first International Chenin Congress which she would be attending. We spoke of all things Chenin, but also looked into what the congress might mean for the variety at home and across the globe.

The first Chenin Blanc International Congress will take place in Angers, France from 1 to 3 July 2019. The congress will highlight Chenin blanc's versatility, its singularity and its soils. When the Breedekloof winemakers learned of this congress they jumped at the opportunity to expand their knowledge and learn more about this versatile grape.

In September 2016, a research exchange and networking meeting was held in Savennières, France, between the Chenin Blanc Association (CBA), the University of Stellenbosch (SU) and the various French research organisations in order to establish the grounds for the first Chenin Blanc International Congress in 2019. Ina Smith, Manager of the CBA, was present at this meeting.